MOUNT WILSON SOLAR OBSERVATORY. 203 



12 of nickel, however, exhibit either displacement or decomposition 

 in an intense electric field. It is interesting to find that under these 

 conditions the relative intensity of the lines is unlike that given by the 

 arc, spark, or furnace. 



The important task of determining the wave-lengths of lines serving 

 as primary and secondary standards has already been mentioned. 

 This has now reached a point where many of the unstable lines of iron 

 can be safely used, providing that suitable precautions be taken in the 

 adjustment of the electric arc. In this connection the displacing 

 effect of the spark on lines of iron has been determined and the pressure 

 shifts of iron Unes have been remeasured, with unproved apparatus, 

 to eliminate pole effect. 



The chief work of construction has included the enlargement of the 

 Pasadena physical laboratory to nearly double its former area; the 

 erection of a two-story concrete dormitory on Mount Wilson, adjoining 

 the Monastery, to provide for the increased staff required for the 100- 

 inch telescope; and the essential completion of the dome and mounting 

 for this instrument. The erection on Mount Wilson of a 75-foot steel 

 flagpole, flying a large American flag, for both of which we are indebted 

 to Mr. Edward D. Adams, should also be recorded here as an appropri- 

 ate event of the year. 



As the Director has had so small a part in the year's activities, he 

 may be permitted to express his pleasure in the important advances 

 made in every department of the Observatory's work and his high 

 appreciation of the faithful and devoted services of eveiy member of 

 the staff. It is well to remember that all forms of scientific research 

 represent a very real service to the state. Astronomy is not so remote 

 from the practical affairs of life as a superficial estimate might con- 

 ceive it. Poincare has shown this most clearly in his book on The 

 Value of Science, where he asks how far advanced the world's civiliza- 

 tion would be if the stars had always been hidden by clouds. It is 

 interesting to observe that in demonstrating the part played by astron- 

 omy in the world's progress he does not even mention such important 

 matters as navigation and the determination of time, because of their 

 insignificance as compared with far more impressive contributions. 

 Thanks to observatories in all quarters of the earth, the picture of 

 the universe still continues to unfold and to influence progress in every 

 field of thought. We are happily in a period of unprecedented progress, 

 when the empirical conceptions of an earlier time are rapidly giving 

 place to well-grounded views. The privilege of aiding in this advance, 

 at a time when the pioneer stage has not yet been passed, will be appre- 

 ciated by those who reflect on the true meaning and influence of 

 astronomical discovery. 



