From:
John Frederick William Herschel
To:
George Biddell Airy
Date:
12 November 1838
Source of text:
MM/16/147, Royal Society
Summary:
No summary available.
Contributor:
Royal Society
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Sets out JH's preferences with regard to developing a system of reductions of astronomical observations that could then be easily applied.
About the prices of telescope mirrors, and specifically the one of T. J. Hussey; recommends use of certain stars to test the optical quality of the mirror.
Thanks GA for the second volume of his observations; wishes the publications of the Astronomer Royal were as good; adds some comments on polarization of light by liquids, and then talks about observing Georgium Sidum [Uranus], and deals with the orbits of satellites of planets generally.
Comments on GA's and Edward Sabine's work on the figure of the earth; describes some results JH obtained from using quartz for polarizing light, and is unhappy with the proposed recipient of the R.A.S. medal, M. C. T. Damoiseau, whose lunar theory JH cannot understand.
An extensive discussion of the best way of presenting the results produced from the observations made at the Royal Observatory at Greenwich, together with comments about the duties and responsibilities of the Astronomer Royal.
Is trying to clean up JH's nebulae observations preparatory to leaving for the Cape; comments on communications from F. G. W. Struve about double stars.
Is grateful for GA's encouragement to prepare JH's nebulae observations for publication before leaving for the Cape; it now seems clear to JH that he cannot leave before 1833; JH has had further communications from F. G. W. Struve about double stars [see JH's 1832-5-4].
Encourages GA to consider favorably the offer of Hugh Percy [Duke of Northumberland] of donating a telescope to Cambridge Observatory.
A note along with letters from R. A. Cauchoix, the telescope maker, and [J. C. Spencer,] Lord Althorp, about the B.A.A.S.; JH is trying to clean up observation reports before leaving for the Cape.