HYPATIA, of Alexandria, Egyptian scientist and inventor, 370-415 AD. Indirect references suggest she was the first woman scientist, astronomer, mathematician and inventor on record. She may have invented an Astrolabe or Planisphere for astronomical observations and measurements. Also believed to have used distilled water and a hydrometer. A hydroscope was also referred to, apparently it measured water depth. After studying under Plutarch in Athens, Hypatia returned to Alexandria to teach Maths and Astronomy at her father’s academy. She died as a result of an attack by a mob of religious zealots. Most now known of her comes from Synesius or Suidas, whose letters survive and refer to her inventions and skills. A modern description of her would be the Chair of Platonic Philosophy.