| Description | Noting the proposal by the Government of Western Australia to close Perth Observatory on 31 December 1912, giving background information on its role in participating in efforts to compile an International Chart and Catalogue of the Heavens. This included the co-operation of Mr. Dyson at the Royal Observatory in Edinburgh in measuring photographs, on condition that these images and meridian observations were taken at Perth. If Perth is closed, Professor Sampson estimates that two thirds of the work done at Edinburgh would be rendered useless. The participation of the Perth Observatory was of great value, since there were only a small number of southern hemisphere observatories equipped with appropriate instruments. It would be a misfortune if Perth were to close, but if it did, it would be desirable to complete its section of the chart and catalogue. |