To know that we know what we know, and to know that we do not know what we do not know, that is true knowledge. – Nicolaus Copernicus
So far as hypotheses are concerned, let no one expect anything certain from astronomy, which cannot furnish it, lest he accept as the truth ideas conceived for another purpose, and depart from this study a greater fool than when he entered it. – Nicolaus Copernicus
For it is the duty of an astronomer to compose the history of the celestial motions through careful and expert study. – Nicolaus Copernicus
So, influenced by these advisors and this hope, I have at length allowed my friends to publish the work, as they had long besought me to do. – Nicolaus Copernicus
For every man there comes that special moment when he is physically tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a very special thing – unique to him and fitted to his talents.
What a tragedy if that moment finds him unprepared or unqualified for the work which would be his finest hour. – Anon.