REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON OBSERVATORIES 7 



We also urge the establishment of an observing station for solar 

 investigation in exceptionally favorable conditions of atmosphere, 

 to be kept up during one full sun spot period at least (eleven years), 

 or, preferably, through the maximum which may be expected to 

 occur about 191 6. In connection with this station (or with both 

 stations) we recommend the construction and maintenance of a 

 powerful reflecting telescope, as large as it is thought prudent to 

 undertake, for use in astrophysical investigations upon the stars. 



In appropriate sections of this report and in the appendices the sev- 

 eral projects are discussed in some detail. We are indebted to our 

 scientific colleagues for important advice and suggestions upon the 

 matter herein treated, for which our best thanks are due. 



These projects involve a large expenditure of money and scien- 

 tific effort. Their importance demands that the reasons justifying 

 an expenditure so great should be stated somewhat in detail, and 

 that the character and importance of the scientific works for which 

 provision is desired should be indicated. 



Before proceeding to these details, however, it may be well to take 

 up some of the general considerations that have a bearing on chese 

 projects. 



Under its policy, as we understand it, the Carnegie Institution 

 would not be inclined to establish an astronomical observatory for 

 the general promotion of astronomy without more definitely ex- 

 pressed object. In lieu of special instructions the Committee looks 

 for guidance to the declared policy of the Trustees as found in the 

 Year Book for 1902 (pp. xxxvi-xxxvii) . From this it appears 

 that: 



' ' The Institution does not propose to undertake — 



(a) To do anything that is being well done by other 



agencies. 

 (c) To enter the field of existing organizations that are 



properly equipped or are likely to be so equipped. ' ' 



Aside from the support which it is the policy and practice of the 

 Carnegie Institution to 'extend to investigations to be carried on 

 through existing agencies, it desires 



" To promote original research by systematically sustaining — 

 (a) Projects of broad scope that may lead to the discovery 

 and utilization of new forces for the benefit of man. 

 (&) Projects of minor scope that may fill gaps in knowl- 

 edge of particular things or restricted fields of re- 

 search." 



