Rejoices that RH is studying orbit of Mu2 Bootis. Suggests way to simplify calculations. Compares orbits for Gamma Virginis calculated by various observers. Notice of systematic errors.
Showing 41–60 of 164 items
Rejoices that RH is studying orbit of Mu2 Bootis. Suggests way to simplify calculations. Compares orbits for Gamma Virginis calculated by various observers. Notice of systematic errors.
Responds to recently printed letter by James South. Denies South's assertion and confirms that William Herschel did discover two interior satellites of Saturn with 40-feet reflector telescope in 1789.
Privately acknowledges lack of clarity in William Herschel's report of discovering Saturn's inner rings, but JH was hurt by James South's public refutation of that discovery and by [T. R.] Robinson's abrupt refusal to communicate. Reviews WH's papers to demonstrate falsity of South's claim. Asks TM's opinion.
Encourages board of directors to pay for publication of magnetic and meteorological observations made at four H.E.I.C. observatories. Names countries that participated in global survey.
Will write to Court of Directors to ask H.E.I.C. to publish observations from Indian observatories. Needs to know where observations are stored, whether Humphrey Lloyd has reduced them, ES's reasons for making this request, best method for preparing data, and probable expense. Must go to Slough tomorrow to do business with former tenant.
Sends copy of B.A.A.S. resolutions to fellows of Trinity College, Dublin, containing recommendation to continue magnetic and meteorological observatory there.
Alerts WW, who was coming to visit the Herschels, that scarlet fever has arrived at JH's household. Comments onWW's writings about glacial theory.
Seems clear that JH's 'falling star' [see JH's 1845-4-29] was the same one reported by a correspondent of GA's as having been seen in Nottingham; in a postscript JH is not so sure.
Approves GM's price for making 6.5-inch telescope. Proceed with work, which must be completed in five or six months. JH must consult others before approving mounting and clockwork [see GM's 1845-11-18].
About a letter of recommendation JH is preparing for Robert Hunt.
Thanks for the paper on the photographic effect of light on drugs. JH also comments on the photographic experiments of Mary Somerville.
Is pleased that a bill [JH's comments seem to hint at corporal punishment for offenders] is to be brought to Parliament [see JH's 1845-2-10].
Is horrified at the wanton destruction of the Portland Vase in the [British] Museum. JH suggests flogging as appropriate for such acts of vandalism [see JH's 1845-3-18].
JH comments on JL's 'memoir on the heat of vapours,' indicating JH's dissatisfaction with the experimental basis (the experimental work of J. L. Gay-Lussac) for the conclusions. JH offers improvements in the construction and operation of the ice calorimeter.
Promises to become more knowledgeable about [heat?] theory in order to be able to discuss it with JL. Cautions that the subject is an intricate one.
Received 50 copies of memoirs of James Grahame. Will delete one passage in the copies he will distribute. Congratulates JQ on his literary accomplishment.
Seeks GA's assistance in solving a puzzle in the mathematics of rotating bodies.
[Robert Chambers's] Vestiges of Creation is shallow and full of errors. Tells AS not to spare it when he reviews it. Discusses various topics including the nebular hypothesis, P. S. Laplace, central heat in gravitation, and the density of planets. Also, the 'nonsensical calculations' of Auguste Comte's astronomy.
Invites AS to Collingwood for Christmas. JH has been ill.
Discusses MS's light experiments. JH will present the results to Royal Society. Describes apparatus that may help her. Recently attended a meeting concerning continental magnetics and meteorology.