Astronomical Informalion. i%\ 



but also those of other astronomers. In short, the catalogues 

 of Mr. Pond hhnself, as published at various periods, differ 

 from each other in some instances, by as large quantities as 

 those above alluded to : and until the comparative catalogues 

 assume a greater degree of consistency, and become more 

 free from oscillations, it will be in vain to attempt to reconcile 

 these fluctuating and minute discordances ; which, after all, 

 perhaps depend on circumstances unconnected mth the ob- 

 server or the artist. 



It is fortunate, however, tor the interests of astronomy, that 

 the progress of the science is not arrested till those minor ano- 

 malies are adjusted. For, whilst we are amusing ourselves 

 with these minute discussions, and commenting on the ever- 

 varying comparisons, the continental astronomers are, with 

 rapid strides, enlarging the bounds of the science, as well by 

 their discoveries and observations, as by their numerous re- 

 searches into various interesting points of physical and prac- 

 tical astronomy. 



ASTRONOMICAL INFORMATION. 



The indefatigable Bessel, to whom every branch of astro- 

 nomy is so much indebted, is proceeding rapidly in his general 

 Survey of the heavens. He has observed all the zones (with a 

 very trifling exception) from +15° to —5° declination; and 

 has made great progress in the survey of the zones contained 

 between —5° and —15°. He has already observed upwards 

 of twenty-five thousand stars ; amongst which are many new 

 dmcble stars. Five thousand of these stars observed in the 

 year 1821, are given in the 7th number of his "Observations:" 

 and the remainder will follow m succession. Dr. Struve of 

 Dorpat, and M. Argelander at Abo, are associated in this 

 grand undertaking, and will observe the more northerly stars. 

 Those who are desirous and capable of distinguishing them- 

 selves in this laudable career, and are favourably situated for 

 that purpose, would render an essential service to the science 

 by observing the more southerly stars. It is only by an union 

 of men of talent and enterprize that this splendid outline can 

 be filled up. 



The method, to which we alluded in a former number, of 

 determining the difference of longitude between two observa- 

 tories by a comparison of the culmination of the moon and 

 certain stars near her at that time, is pursued with great suc- 

 cess on the continent : and the practical astronomer, who is 

 desirous of determining the longitude of his observatory, will 

 do well to take advantage of this favourable circumstance. 

 M. Schumacher, who is ever assiduous in promoting the best 



interests 



