Ferdinand Verbiest (Ferdinand de los Reyes)

Ferdinand Verbiest, also known as Ferdinand de los Reyes, was a Flemish Jesuit priest and a prominent scientist in the 17th century. He was known for his work in astronomy, mathematics, and engineering, particularly in China, where he served as a missionary. Verbiest was instrumental in promoting Western scientific knowledge and developed advanced astronomical instruments like the first Chinese astronomical telescope. His contributions helped bridge Eastern and Western scientific traditions, and he played a significant role in the Jesuits’ efforts to introduce European science to Chinese scholars.