| Reference number | MS/257/2/98 |
| Alternative reference number | Sa.480 |
| Previous numbers | ES2/12/480 |
| Level | Item |
| Title | Letter from Robert Lewis John Ellery, Melbourne Observatory to Edward Sabine |
| Date | 2 March 1868 |
| Description | Ellery had hoped to be in England at this time but due to political affairs in Australia has postponed his plans. Discussion regarding the work of the magnetograph at Melbourne Observatory. Ellery is keen to use the same forms and methods as Kew to tabulate the results. Ellery expresses his disappointment regarding the diurnal range of temperature. Ellery discusses the photography. Ellery is sending Mr [Balfour] Stewart copies of four or five declination sheets which show a strange vibratory disturbance.
Mr [George Frederic] Verdon will write to Sabine to update about the work of the Board of Visitors, and reference to the Melbourne telescope to be ‘styled the “great Melbourne telescope”’. Ellery hopes that Mr [Albert] Le Sueur and the telescope are on their way.
Discussion regarding dust storms and the decreasing frequency with which they are reaching the observatory.
Ellery hopes a spectroscope for star, planet and nebula work has been sent. Discussion regarding Ellery’s atmospheric ‘absorption’ by spectroscopic observations. Reference to the geodetic survey, and intercolonial boundaries. Ellery is currently making a series of observations for determining the coefficient of horizontal refraction in Australia. |
| Extent | 7p |
| Format | Manuscript |
| Physical description | Ink on paper |
| Access status | Open |
Fellows associated with this archive
| Code | Name | Dates |
| NA6424 | Ellery; Robert Lewis John (1827 - 1908); astronomer | 1827 - 1908 |
| NA8279 | Sabine; Sir; Edward (1788 - 1883) | 1788 - 1883 |