The 1874 Transit of Venus Observed in Japan by the French, and Associated Relics
Abstract
In 1874, Janssen, Tisserand and others went to Japan to observe the transit of Venus. Most of the members of the team set up their instruments in Nagasaki, while two of them observed at Kobe. Details of the expedition are mentioned. In 1998, on the occasion of an international astronomical conference held in Japan, the participants had the opportunity to visit the place in Nagasaki where the 1874 observations were performed. A few relics were preserved there, and these are discussed in this paper. They consist of a pyramid erected by Janssen and two pillars. At Kobe, the column built by the Governor is also preserved.
In 2004, a transit of Venus was observed from Europe. Many observing sites were organized in many countries, including Great Britain and France, with many places for the public, students and amateurs. The event was an opportunity for teachers to give an unusual observing experience to their students.
- Publication:
-
Journal of Astronomical History and Heritage
- Pub Date:
- December 2006
- Bibcode:
- 2006JAHH....9..167D
- Keywords:
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- 1874 transit of Venus;
- Janssen;
- Tisserand