Astronomer and politician.

A great admirer of Franklin, he collaborated with him in the investigation into Mesmer’s theories and practices (1784).

Calculated the orbit of the comet of 1682, which reappeared in 1759. Installed an observatory in the top floor of the Louvre (1760).

Named to the Academy of Sciences (1763). Began work on his five-volume publication, Histoire de l’astronomie (1775). Elected to the Académie française (1783). Elected to the Académie des Inscriptions (1785). Signed several reports concerning public sanitation and health (1788).

Elected Mayor of Paris (1789-92). Condemned to the guillotine during the Terror.