1. an observatory is a building erected for astronomical purposes, and supplied with the necessary apparatus for studying the heavens. a thorough knowledge of certain portions of astronomy is indispensable to the commander of a vessel, since it is by means of this alone that he can ascertain his exact position on the open ocean out of sight of land. nautical science and astronomy have advanced hand in hand; and to perfect the former as much as possible the united states government established the naval observatory. this institution is located in washington, and was originated by act of congress in 1842, and put in operation in 1844.
2. this institution owes more to that enlightened and truly patriotic president, john q. adams, than to any other man. he recommended it as far back as 1823, and again in his first message to congress. but political opposition to the man prevented his recommendations from being acted upon till nearly 20 years after they were made. this opposition was finally overcome, and we, and posterity after us, will reap the fruits of mr. adams’ suggestions and labors.
3. the observatory was built and furnished with various astronomical and philosophical instruments, and a corps of professors were appointed to watch the movements of the heavenly bodies, and to make such observations and experiments[312] as would enable them to determine many unsettled questions which relate to the science of navigation; and incidentally to another great government work, having especial reference to the same subject; that is, the coast survey.
the coast survey has already been of great service to the interests of navigation—whether national or commercial vessels are regarded—and, when finished, much greater benefits are to be expected. when a sufficient number of observations and experiments shall have been made at the naval observatory, and published to the world, much valuable information will be added to what is already known. and indeed it would be disreputable to a nation having so large a navy and such a vast number of merchant ships upon the ocean, to do nothing for or add nothing to the science of navigation. it would be an unwise policy if economy only were studied, and we would justly deserve the reproach of being penurious, short-sighted, and miserably wanting in disposition to promote the general good of the world.
4. the professors are assiduous in their labors, and publish the results of their observations and the facts they have determined. these are not only of use to our own seamen, but to those of all nations who are doing business on the great deep. here the charts made by the coast survey are deposited, and from hence all our national vessels are furnished with them, and with all the nautical instruments they require.
the charts, instruments and books relating to astronomy and navigation, found here, make it the headquarters and depot of nautical science in the united states.
