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In 1768, Captain James Cook undertook the first of several expeditions that guaranteed him a permanent place on the list of top explorers of the world. This first journey involved the observance of Venus as it passed across the face of the sun, and Cook's background in astronomy helped to secure his position as leader of the trip. His ship, the Endeavor, carried scientists, including astronomers, botanists, and naturalists, and their discoveries helped to enlighten Europeans about biological life in the Pacific Islands, and added to the body of knowledge about the heavens as well.