University of Virginia :: :: University of Virginia Library

General Astronomy.—The primary aim of this course is to give such
a knowledge of the facts, principles, and methods of Astronomy as
every well-educated person should possess.

The preparation required is a good working knowledge of Arithmetic,
Algebra through Quadratics, Plane and Solid Synthetic Geometry,
and Plane Trigonometry through the Solutions of Triangles. In
this preparation thoroughness is of more importance than extent.

The instruction is given by oral examinations, by lectures, and by
the assignment of problems. The mental discipline of the student is
kept constantly in view, and an earnest effort is made to create a habit
of clear and logical thinking.

Text-Books.—Young's General Astronomy; Berry's A Short History of
Astronomy.

GRADUATE COURSES.

M. A.

The courses mentioned in the paragraph following this, although
primarily designed to meet the wants of candidates for the degree of
Doctor of Philosophy, are also open to candidates for the degree of
Master of Arts, who are required to satisfactorily complete, in addition
to the work of the B. A. course, a year's work in the more advanced courses.

PH. D.

Theoretical Astronomy.—The courses vary from year to year. During
the year 1899-1900 the subjects considered have been: Formation
and integration of the differential equations of motion for an undisturbed
body, determination of the position of a planet from known
elements, of an elliptic orbit from three complete observations, of an
orbit from four observations of which only two are complete, of an
orbit from any number of observations employing the method of
least squares. During the year 1900-1901 lectures will be given on
the determination of orbits of double stars, meteors, and comets, on
mechanical quadrature, and on the methods of computing special perturbations.

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.

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.