Record

Ref No	DM1306/11/1/1/folio 311-317
Title	Account of a new stand to facilitate Astronomical Observations at Sea by Prof. C. Piazzi Smyth
Description	The report sets out the need for some way of holding observation instruments for finding an artificial horizon steady on a rolling, pitching ship; describes existing methods or devices, including Dr Mashulin's observing chair; sets out the physical and scientific principles behind Smyth's theories and how this led to a particular change in the design for Smyth's stand, and describes the tests of various designs of instrument and how this affects Smyth's proposed design which he also describes. The report also includes details of how Smyth intends the stand to be used (complete with an illustrative sketch on Folio 316) and there is also a paragraph explaining the effects of motive force on the device, also with an illustrative sketch on Folio 317. There is also a pencil annotation reading 'Delightful!" next to the final paragraph, explaining the uses of Smyth's device as a potential cure for seasickness among the wealthy who might choose to hire it.
Date	November 1854
Format	Manuscript volume
Extent	7 pages
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Access Conditions	This material is held at the Brunel Institute - please contact the Brunel Institute to arrange access.

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