[The physician and physicist C.G. Kratzenstein's work and research in St. Petersburg 1748-53].

Through introduction from Leonhard Euler the young Halle-scientist C.G. Kratzenstein (1723-95) - famous for his investigations concerning electricity and its physical-therapeutic effect - obtains appointment as member of the St. Petersborg Academy of Siences. Professor G.K. Tsverava in physics of the Leningrad Academy of Sciences and I have restudied and recapitulated our investigations from 1974 and 1989 in a combined study to show, what the young Kratzenstein fullfilled during his work for the Russian Academy during the years 1748-53. He develops astronomical instruments, "geographical and nautical weights", "Sea-watches" and a.o. also a rowing-machine, which might help ships during calm. He is also physician to sick young studets at the Marine Hospital, repairs the Gottorpglobe after the fire of it - and performs an autopsy of an elephant. He obtains much spiritual support from Euler - having much troubles with the chancellor of the Academy J.D. Schumacher. In 1752 Kratzenstein participates in a scientific travel to Archangelsk and therefrom sailing west-on along the Norwegian coast, where he ascertains that it in maps is placed 200 sea-miles too far to the east. He passes Copenhagen, where he during a stay is invited to bec ome a professor of the Copenhagen university. ...