Famed astronomer Tycho Brahe charted the heavens with unmatched precision He died an agonising death (Image: Bildagentur-online/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

A renowned astronomer met a gruesome end when his bladder burst during an extravagant banquet, preventing him from urinating and causing excruciating pain.

Tycho Brahe, celebrated for his unparalleled precision in mapping the stars long before telescopes were invented, was attending a feast at Emperor Rudolf II's court in Prague in October 1601. Eyewitnesses reported that his strict dining etiquette wouldn't permit him to excuse himself for a "natural break."

Hours later, he was writhing in pain, unable to empty his bladder.

Upon returning home, Brahe endured days of severe discomfort. His assistants noted that

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