1895. ] NEW YORK ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 221 
There being no other business, after the minutes were read and 
approved, the Section listened to the paper of Dr. M. A. Veeder, 
of Lyons, N. Y., upon “ Results of Observations of the Aurora 
and related Conditions.” 
A very large and valuable amount of data upon the Aurora, sun- 
spots, magnetic storms and electric storms was set forth, showing 
very beautifully certain periodic recurrences, as well as certain 
interesting facts as to local distribution and time distribution, e. 
g.; Aurora period, 27 days, 6 hours and 35 minutes, same as that 
of sun-spots and magnetic storms. Aurora and magnetic disturb- 
ance are simultaneous with the appearance of disturbances on the 
eastern limit of the sun. More Auroras occur near the equinoxes 
than the solstices. Thunderstorm activity may replace Auroral 
activity. Pennsylvania is predisposed in favor of,and Michigan 
against Aurora. One maximum is at 10 p. m., and a secondary 
maximum at 2a. m., with a change in the sign of the disturbance at 
‘midnight. The author suggested possible explanations of these 
phenomena. The paper was discussed by Professors Rees, Pupin 
and Hallock. 
Professor W. Hallock then told how in 1890 Dr. Hillebrand 
and himself undoubtedly had argon and helium in the gas given 
off by cleveite. They negatively identified them as nitrogen, 
although dissatisfied with the results. Press of official work 
prevented the desired complete examination of the gas at that 
time. 
At ten o’clock the Academy adjourned. 
Wma. HALtock. 
Secretary of Seciton. 
STATED MEETING. 
May 13th, 1895. 
The meeting was called to order at 8:15, Professor Britton in 
the chair. Eighteen persons present. 
In the absence of Dr. Bashford Dean, Secretary of the Section, 
