Autobiography of Sir George Biddell Airy

George Biddell Airy was Astronomer Royal from 1835 until 1881. This autobiography draws on his scientific records and personal correspondence.

George Biddell Airy (Author), Wilfred Airy (Edited by)

9781108008945, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 24 June 2010

436 pages, 1 b/w illus.
21.6 x 14 x 2.5 cm, 0.55 kg

Sir George Biddell Airy (1801–1892) was a prominent mathematician and astronomer. He was an honorary fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, fellow of the Royal Society and Astronomer Royal from 1835 until 1881. His many achievements include important work on planetary orbits, the calculation of the mean density of the earth and the establishment of the prime meridian at Greenwich. He was also consulted by the government on a wide range of issues and projects, serving on the weights and measures commission, the tidal harbours commission and the railway gauge commission as well as acting as an advisor for the repair of Big Ben and the laying of the Atlantic cable. His autobiography, edited by his son Wilfred, comprises ten chapters and is drawn from the astronomer's own records of the scientific work he carried out at Greenwich Observatory along with his printed reports and private and business correspondence.

Preface
1. Personal sketch of George Biddell Airy
2. From his birth to his taking his B.A. degree
3. At Trinity College, Cambridge
4. At Cambridge Observatory
5. At Greenwich Observatory, 1836–1846
6. At Greenwich Observatory, 1846–1856
7. At Greenwich Observatory, 1856–1866
8. At Greenwich Observatory, 1866–1876
9. At Greenwich Observatory to his resignation in 1881
10. At the White House, Greewich, to his death
Appendix: List of printed papers
Index.

Subject Areas: History of science [PDX]