Plaskett Report for December 1926


The month was fair for observing, a total of 91 plates being secured on 12 nights. The average for the month for the preceding seven years is 7 plates on 9 nights. On the whole the year has been considerably above the average as 1958 plates were secured on 217 nights as compared with the average of the preceding seven years of 16553 plates on 206 nights.

[Dr. Zanstra from Seattle worked a few days at the Observatory, Ed.]

Tue, Dec 28, 1926 – 6 · The Victoria Daily Times (Victoria, British Columbia, Canada) · Newspapers.com

Director J. S. Plaskett obtained 40 spectrograms on 3 nights and measured 39 spectrograms for radial velocity. He computed and tabulated residual radial velocities of B stars observed here. Work on orbit and usual correspondence and administrative work.

Assistant Director W. E. Harper observed 4 nights securing 38 plates. Measured 33 spectrograms for radial velocity. About one-third of office time spent working with Mr. Johns on solutions for Boss 3511. Prepared and gave radio talk.

Fri, Dec 3, 1926 – 19 · The Victoria Daily Times (Victoria, British Columbia, Canada) · Newspapers.com

Research Astronomer H. H. Plaskett worked part of 1 night obtaining a spectrum of Z Andomedae. Day work has been divided between measuring and discussing radial velocity of Z Andromedae, and some work on the theory of band spectra, especially in connection with late-type stars.

Assistant Astronomer J. A. Pearce worked 4 nights securing 12 plates. Measured for radial velocity of 36 plates. Some work on card catalogue of B-type stars.,

Temporary Assistant A. E. Johns continued least-squares solutions for Boss 3511 and theoretical work on causes of variation in orbits.

Astronomical Computer S. N. Hill measured 13 plates for silicon lines in the secondary spectrum of HD 212240. Comparison of 4471 to 4481 in 32 spectra to determine type. Comparison of spectra of HD 2314240 with 26 spectra of known type and luminosity. Writing up the orbit of HD 214240 and making velocity curves. Computing absolute magnitude, parallax and density from observed data and from Eddington’s and Seares. Work in connection with the library.

Senior Clerk Typist Miss H. R. Keay handled the usual correspondence, reports, accounts and plates. Did some work on card catalogue of mailing list. General astronomical typing.

Instrument Maker Foreman T. T. Hutchison assisted in observing on 6 nights. Usual repair work around dome.