K. L. Harding discovers the asteroid Juno (September 1804)

Background. Karl Ludwig Harding, a German astronomer educated at the University of Göttingen, joined Johann Hieronymus Schröter's observatory in Lilienthal in 1796. Initially hired as a tutor, Harding was soon appointed observer and inspector. This institutional context provided the resources for his astronomical work, culminating in the discovery of Juno in 1804.

Discovery. On 1 September 1804, Harding discovered the asteroid 3 Juno at Schröter's observatory in Lilienthal. Juno was the third asteroid discovered in the main belt. The discovery occurred while Harding was part of a collaborative group, marking a significant contribution to the identification of large asteroids in the asteroid belt.

Aftermath. Following the discovery, Harding left Lilienthal in 1805, succeeded by Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel. He was appointed extraordinary professor of astronomy at the University of Göttingen. His professional standing was further recognized by his election to various scientific academies, including the Royal Society in London in 1806.