Progress in Astronomy. xi 



Hues and of changes in these lines have presented the most 

 interesting features to the observers. These lines or " canals " 

 as they ai-e called, appear to overspread the brighter parts 

 or continents of the planets. The markings are stated to 

 have been seen to change under observation, the so-called 

 canals to " germinate " or split oft', leading some to the 

 suggestion that they are actually artificial works in progi'ess ! 

 Enormous inundations of portions of the planet's surface 

 are also stated to have been seen. The great Lick telescope 

 was devoted to observations of tliese appearances in July 

 and August, and photos of rough drawings are on the table. 

 There can be no doubt about the appearances, but there is 

 about the interpretation of them. Astronomers generally, I 

 think, are " waiting" for further developments, for there are 

 insuperable difficulties in accepting the explanations already 

 ventured upon. It is moi'e than probable that all these 

 appearances will eventually be attributed to diffi'action or 

 optical effects from conformation of vaporous surroundings 

 of the planet, rather than of any objective change in its 

 surface. 



The great Lick telescope, the largest refi-acting telescope 

 yet constructed, with an aperture of thirty-six inches, 

 and a focal length of fifty-six feet, was first pointed to the 

 heavens on January 3, 1888, but could not be really used 

 till July 16th following, owing to the freezing of the 

 hydraulic gearing. So far, I think it has proved itself, not 

 only the biggest, but the best telescope in the world, if one 

 can judge of its work that has been put before us, especially 

 the drawings of some of the planets. This giant refractor, 

 it appears, is not long to enjoy the reputation of being the 

 largest refractor in the world, for it is now proposed to build 

 an observatory at Los Angelos in Southern California, on 

 Wilson's peak, 6000 feet high, which is to have a telescope 

 of forty-two inches aperture. If this comes to pass, 

 California will be able to boast of having the two largest 

 refracting telescopes in the world. Speaking of telescopes, 

 I may inform our members that the Melbouiiie Reflector is 



