PH. D.
Theoretical Astronomy.—The courses offered vary from year to year. During
the session of 1896-97 lectures were given introductory to Celestial Mechanics,
largely based on the first volume of Tisserand's Mécanique Céleste. During the
session of 1897-98 courses were given on the History of Astronomy, on Least
Squares, and on the Lunar Theory. During the year 1898-99 the Problem of
Two Bodies will be studied. This course will be based on Gauss's Theoria Motus.
Practical Astronomy.—Laboratory courses are offered each year, in which systematic
training is given in numerical computation, and in the use of Astronomical
instruments. Students are also encouraged to engage in such original work as
their time and attainments may permit.
A Seminar is held once a week, at which lectures are given on assigned subjects
by the more advanced students.
Completion of the M. A. course in the School of Mathematics or that of Natural
Philosophy may be substituted, if desired, for the equivalent work in Astronomy
as a qualification for candidacy for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy by those
who elect Astronomy as one of their subjects.
For information in regard to Fellowships in Astronomy, application should be
made to the professor in charge of the School.
The Astronomical Observatory is situated upon an elevation known as Mount
Jefferson, which furnishes an unobstructed horizon. The principal building is a
rotunda forty-five feet in diameter, and contains the great Clark refractor of twenty-six
inches aperture. The building and instrument are the gift of Leander J. McCormick,
Esq., of Chicago. The computing rooms are adjoining, and contain
clock, chronograph, etc., and a working library. In a smaller building are a three-inch
Fauth transit and a four-inch Kahler equatorial.
