Sky Studies

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 529, 5 December 1928, Page 6

Sky Studies

Australia s Observatory SITE NEAR CANBERRA A few of the principal features of Australia’s new astronomical headquarters at Mount Stromlo, near Canberra, were outlined this morning by Dr. W. G. Duffield, Director of the Commonwealth Civil Observatory, who arrived in the Maunganui and will spend the next fortnight on a holiday tour of New Zealand. The Commonwealth Observatory was 10 miles west of Canberra, he said. Ths site was ideal for the purpose, and Alount Stromlo provided conditions, atmospheric and otherwise, that could hardly be bettered. As Australia’s national observatory the institution was intended lor the study of solar physics, astro physics, and allied problems, particularly the relation between solar and terrestrial phenomena. Although the observatory had been established for only two or three years, there was already a young community containing six houses for the staff, and bachelor quarters. The early work of establishment consisted of ensuring a good road and adequate water supply. For tlie latter purpose a 6,000-gallon tank had been installed. This provided electric lignt and power. “The present equipment consists u* a - 1 uch Udsx-eseat*! by James Gddle, or iSa'.'.e.r'&L toother presented by Lord rarnham's estate.” continued Dr. Duffield. -A third which has ju&t arrived at Canberra has a glass mirror 30 inches in diameter. It is the gift of J. K. Kenolds, a distinguished Birmingham astronomer. When erected it will be a powerful addition to the telescopes quartered in the Southern Hemisphere lie added that one cf the main objects of the observatory was the study of tne sim. and for this a special sun telescope* was installed. The measurement of the sun’s radiation v as a point of special interest.