THE STELLAR UNIVERSE. 



indicates with extreme probability an elevation of that part above 

 the plane of the rest ; so that the real form must be that of a ring 

 split through half its circumference, and having the split portions 

 set asunder at an angle of 45. 



Fig. 32 is the same object as shown by Lord Rosse's telescope. 

 This shows, in a striking manner, how entirely the appearances of 

 these objects are liable to be varied by the increased magnifying 

 power and greater efficiency of the telescope through which they 

 are viewed. It is evident, that very little resemblance or analogy 

 is discoverable between fig. 31 and fig. 32. Lord Rosse, however, 



says that if Sir John Herschel's be placed as it would be seen with 

 a Newtonian telescope, the bright convolutions of the spiral shown 

 in his own would be recognised in the appearance which Sir J. 

 Herschel supposed to be that which would be produced by a split or 

 divided ring. Lord Rosse further observes that, with each increase 

 of optical power, the structure of this object becomes more com- 

 plicated and more unlike anything which could be supposed to be 

 the result of any form of dynamical law of which we find a coun- 

 terpart in our system. The connection of the companion with the 

 principal nebula, of which there is not the least doubt, and which 

 is represented in the sketch, adds, in Lord Rosse's opinion, if pos- 

 sible, to the difficulty of forming any conceivable hypothesis. 

 That such a system should exist without internal movement he 

 considers in the last degree improbable. Our conception may be 

 aided, by uniting with the idea of motion the effects of a resisting 

 medium ; but it is impossible to imagine such a system in any point 

 of view, as a case of mere statical equilibrium. Measurements he 

 therefore considers of the highest interest, but of great difficulty. 

 32 



