ABSTRACTS OF REPORTS OF EUROPEAN OBSERVATORIES. 



[Translated and condensed from tln> Vierteljahrsschrift of the German Astronomical 

 Society by Geo. H. Boehmer, Smithsonian Institution.] 



BASEL. 

 (Ed. Hagenbacii, Director of the Physical Institute.) 



The principal instruments are : The equatorial, made by the ; 'Soci6te 

 Genevoise pour la construction d'instruments de physique" mounted on 

 an isolated pillar, under a movable dome of 5 metres diameter. The 

 instrument is provided with a centrifugal regulator, constructed accord- 

 ing to Prof. M. Thury's directions, with position micrometer, spectro- 

 scope, and camera obscura. 



The meridian circle, constructed by the Societe Genevoise, with 2h 

 objective, by C. A. Steinheil. 



The astronomical clock was constructed by Theodor Knoblich, in Ham- 

 burg. 



The mean time is given by means of an electric pendulum, by M. Hipp, 

 iu Xeueuburg. 



Both clocks connect with a number of dials in various rooms, and also 

 with the chronograph. 



BERLIN. 



(Prof. H. Foerster, Director of the Observatory ; Dr. Tietjex, Director of the Com- 

 puting Bureau. 



The small meridian circle was used by Dr. Steinbrink, a volunteer 

 observer, in comparison star determinations for planetary observations. 



The large meridian circle was used to continue t lie observations of the 

 521 fundamental stars of the V. J. S. Catalogue and those of Mayer's 

 catalogue. In connection with this a series of observations were made 

 which served partly to determine star positions for the examination of 

 the heliometers of the German transit of Venus ami Mr. Gill's expedi- 

 tions, and partly to examine certain systematic errors in observing. 



For time determinations and position <>!' instrument 858 stars were ob- 

 served on 108 nights. 



Observations were made lor examination of the influence of the posi- 

 tion of the head (north or south) in observations of stars near the zenith. 

 For the same purpose 155 observations of right ascension were made at 

 the request of Mr. Gill on 1L' stars designated by him. 



S. Mis. 54 37 577 



