Figure , Climate , Atmosphere , jRmg of Saturn . 459 
degree, and that consequently no error could arise from that 
cause. 
I have divided the following observations into two heads, 
one relating intirely to the figure of the body of Saturn, the 
other concerning the physical condition or climate and at- 
mosphere of the planet. 
Observations of the Figure of Saturn. 
In the collection of my observations on the planet Saturn, 
I have met with one made 18 years ago, which is perfectly 
applicable to the present subject, and is as follows : 
August 2, 1788, 2 i h 58'. 20-feet reflector, power 300. 
Admitting the equatorial diameter of Saturn to lie in the 
direction of the ring, the planet is evidently flattened at the 
poles. I have often before, and again this evening, supposed 
the shape of Saturn not to be spheroidical, (like that of Mars 
and Jupiter,) but much flattened at the poles, and also a very 
little flattened at the equator, but this wants more exact 
observations. 
April 16, 1806. I examined the figure of the body of 
Saturn with the 7 and 10-feet telescopes, but they acted very 
indifferently, and, were I to judge by present appearances, I 
should suppose the planet to have undergone a considerable 
change ; should this be the case, it will then be necessary to 
trace out the cause of such alterations. 
April 19. 10-feet, power 300. The polar regions are much 
flattened. The figure of the planet differs a little from what 
it appeared last year. This may be owing to the increased 
opening of the ring, which in four places obstructs now the 
