I can only mention among the problems of the spectroscope the
elegant and remarkable solution of the mystery surrounding the
rings of Saturn, which has been effected by Keeler at Allegheny.
That these rings could not be solid has long been a conclusion of
the laws of mechanics, but Keeler was the first to show that they
really consist of separate particles, because the inner portions
revolve more rapidly than the outer.
The question of the atmosphere of Mars has also received an
important advance by the work of Campbell at Mount Hamilton.
Although it is not proved that Mars has no atmosphere, for the
existence of some atmosphere can scarcely be doubted, yet the
Mount Hamilton astronomer seems to have shown, with great
conclusiveness, that it is so rare as not to produce any sensible
absorption of the solar rays.
I have left an important subject for the close. It belongs
entirely to the older astronomy, and it is one with which I am
glad to say this observatory is expected to especially concern
itself. I refer to the question of the variation of latitudes,
that singular phenomenon scarcely suspected ten years ago, but
brought out by observations in Germany during the past eight
years, and reduced to law with such brilliant success by our own
Chandler.
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