Cohen also mentioned the contributions of several other colleagues in the preparation of his book. George E. Smith, former chair of the philosophy department at Tufts University, R.S. Westfall, professor at Indiana University, Michael Nauenberg at Santa Cruz and Curtis Wilson at St. John's University.

Cohen, who retired from his faculty position in 1984, has dedicated many years to the study of Newton's work.

"My special field, the scientific revolution, focuses on the activities of the 16th and 17th centuries," he said. "Isaac Newton was a key figure, and many consider his Principia to be the high point of the revolution."

Cohen hopes that his translation will be of good use to students and scientists.

"There is a lot of scholarly interest in the book, not only from history of science departments, but public interest as well, because the book is so important," Cohen said.

"The book is being used," he said. "I hope to get good feedback on it. Bit by bit, we hope to be able to revise it and prepare a second edition."

Cohen's book is currently available in bookstores.