Biographical sketch of Ernst Leyst

Abstract

Ernst Leyst was born at Reval on January 7, 1852, as the son of poor parents. While a student he refused an excellent offer which, though freeing him from all material cares, would have led to a purely civilian career. He attended the University of Dorpat where he supported himself by giving private lessons, so that only after four years of study did he succeed in passing the final examination. He then went to Petrograd where for several years he was engaged at the Physical Central Observatory.