THE NEW ZEALAND SOLAR OBSERVATORY.—In an address to the members of the Wellington Philosophical Society, by the president, Dr. C. Monro Hector, the subject dealt with was the present state of affairs as regards the Cawthron Solar Observatory. Referring first of all to the approval of all the leading authorities in both Europe and America for the establishment of such an observatory, he points out the suitability of the neighbourhood of Nelson as the site. The records show that this region has 20 per cent, more sunshine and 33 per cent, less rain than at the Kodaikanal Observatory in India. Several excellent sites about Nelson are available, but that on the Port Hills, within easy reach of the town, has so far proved the best from an observational point of view; if this be eventually selected, it will be a means of saving much money in initial outlay and running expenses. Mr. Thomas Cawthron has promised the 50,000l. for a beginning, being the estimated minimum for establishing the observatory on a continuous and permanent basis; a suggested deed of trust has been drawn up, and a suggested board of trustees has been submitted to him and approved. The proposed constitution of the board is as follows:—Mr. Thomas Cawthron, one member nominated by each of eight institutions, the Government Astronomer, and two others elected by the rest of the board.
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Apr 1, 1929
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