| Description | Written from 18 Duke Street, London. The letter introduces Brunel's current project, to build large steamships to service a route travelling to India via the Cape of Good Hope, and requests Airy's help and advice (as Astronomer Royal) in ensuring that the ship has perfect navigation. Brunel intends to establish an observatory on board his ship to constantly determine the ship's position, course, speed, the effect of wind and current and the variation of the compasses and the state of the weather. Brunel requests Airy's help with determining what observations ought to be made, what instruments should be provided and what sort of men should be employed to work in this observatory. |