Airy's transit circle
Abstract
The history of this remarkable instrument from conception to retirement is described. Its seminal design and construction are considered, in the context of both its astronomical purpose and the quantification of errors of adjustment necessary to ensure maximum precision of its output. Major modifications, operational procedures, and the programmes carried out with it are also detailed.
- Publication:
-
Journal of Astronomical History and Heritage
- Pub Date:
- December 2001
- Bibcode:
- 2001JAHH....4..115S
- Keywords:
-
- meridian instruments;
- Greenwich Observatory;
- positional astronomy