The Reminiscences of an Astronomer (Cambridge Library Collection - Astronomy)

Simon Newcomb (1835-1903) was an astronomer and mathematician remembered for his work in recalculating the major astronomical constants to a new international standard. He was a founding member of the American Astronomical Society and became its first president in 1899. Although Newcomb's mathematical work is well known, this autobiography, first published in 1903, focuses on his achievements and work as an astronomer. In it he provides an account of his scientific research with comments on his approach, which together with his descriptions of scientific discoveries and collaborations occurring in Washington DC show the variety of scientific research being conducted in the United States in the late nineteenth century. His detailed descriptions of how telescopes were used, together with accounts of his experience of working conditions in various observatories, provide valuable insights into astronomical research methods in the late nineteenth century. Cover......Page 1 Frontmatter......Page 6 PREFACE......Page 10 Contents......Page 12 THE REMINISCENCES OF AN ASTRONOMER......Page 16 I - THE WORLD OF COLD AND DARKNESS......Page 18 II - DR. FOSHAY......Page 40 III - THE WORLD OF SWEETNESS AND LIGHT......Page 79 IV - LIFE AND WORK AT AN OBSERVATORY......Page 114 V - GREAT TELESCOPES AND THEIR WORK......Page 145 VI - THE TRANSITS OF VENUS......Page 168 VII - THE LICK OBSERVATORY......Page 199 VIII - THE AUTHOR'S SCIENTIFIC WORK......Page 212 IX - SCIENTIFIC WASHINGTON......Page 251 X - SCIENTIFIC ENGLAND......Page 288 XI - MEN AND THINGS IN EUROPE......Page 319 XII - THE OLD AND THE NEW WASHINGTON......Page 351 XIII - MISCELLANEA......Page 389 INDEX......Page 434 Simon Newcomb (1835-1903) was an astronomer and mathematician. This autobiography, first published in 1903, focuses on his astronomical studies, and also provides information on the practical aspects of astronomy drawn from his experience, with comments on his scientific achievements.