Alexander von Humboldt reports reading that Lord Rosse's telescope has resolved the nebula of Orion. Humboldt requests JH's view on the matter. Describes new government.
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Alexander von Humboldt reports reading that Lord Rosse's telescope has resolved the nebula of Orion. Humboldt requests JH's view on the matter. Describes new government.
Relays debate about the use of names of Roman gods for 'planets.' [Annibale] de Gasparis proposes to name his discovery in Italian, 'Igia,' rather than the Roman Hygia [Hygeia]. Which version will JH adopt?
Sends account of rainbow-like atmospheric phenomena; asks JH for an explanation. Remarks on American empirical discoveries. Too many hypotheses being put forward, including [Daniel] Kirkwood's. Comments on [B. A.] Gould and [Stephen] Alexander. Americans think they are absolute judges in scientific matters. Astronomische Nachrichten of 3 November contains improved method for computing planetary orbits.
Thanks JH for explanation of phenomena [see HS's 1849-12-4]. B. A. Gould [?] has begun to publish American version of Astronomische Nachrichten, but without strong financial backing.