REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON OBSERVATORIES 1 3 



In the section of this report which deals with the proposed South- 

 ern Observatory various definite works are enumerated with par- 

 ticular care, and reasons are given in each case why it is important 

 that they should be executed at this time. An effort has been 

 made to indicate the bearing of these works upon the current of 

 astronomical research, proving the manifold benefits which are cer- 

 tain to accrue to a numerous class of investigations. Should this 

 scheme be carried out to a successful conclusion, it will hereafter 

 be found that the results will become interwoven with the progress 

 of knowledge. The points of contact and of essential support will 

 become numerous beyond the power of present estimation. 



What are the chances of success in carrying out the project should 

 it be undertaken ? This is certainly a pertinent question. We shall 

 not attempt any over confident prediction in this direction. Much 

 depends in a matter of this kind on the manner in which the enter- 

 prise is conducted, and also upon the point whether the means are 

 secure and proportioned to the end ; but we are able to say with con- 

 fidence that there would be few obstacles in the way of success. The 

 importance of the various works is incontestible ; this should inspire 

 those who are to execute them. The observers need not be troubled 

 by the least suspicion of the futility of what they are doing. The 

 success of the work does not depend upon the success of hypothetical 

 experiments. It is not proposed to do anything by a process so 

 novel that the guidance of experience in any material degree will be 

 wanting. Even the probable duration of the works can be quite 

 accurately gauged through the teachings of abundant experience. 

 From the outset, in all really essential features, the observers will 

 know what they ought to do and how the}'^ ought to do it. 



The questions of organization and choice of site for the proposed 

 observatory in the southern hemisphere present some problems 

 which call for careful thought. The project admits of various scales 

 of expenditure, but it is earnestly to be hoped that the scale adopted 

 by the Institution would be sufficient to cover all of the works 

 recommended. 



Proposed Observing Station for Solar Investigation. 



Among the projects commended by the Advisory Committee on 

 Astronomy in 1902 is that for the establishment of an observing 

 station for solar research at an elevated point where the atmospheric 

 conditions should be of exceptional excellence. Closely associated 



