Charles Burckhalter to Observe Eclipse in Japan
It is now decided that Mr. Charles Burckhalter, F.R.A.S., of Chabot Observatory, this city, will go to Japan with a full photographic apparatus, for the purpose of getting some views of old Sol (or his corona) when totally eclipsed, as he will be in August, and Japan offers the best ground of observation. Astronomer Burckhalter has invented an apparatus which promises wonders in the photographing of the corona, and his machine is a marvel of mechanical precision, worked out by Mr. Burckhalter himself, who, though an amateur, is a most practical and fine mechanic as well as astronomer, teacher, and electrician. He will go to Japan in connection with the Lick Observatory expedition, the expenses of which, $2,550.50, have been met by a donation from Col. C. F. Crocker, the photographic telescope being furnished by Mr. W. M. Pierson, of San Francisco. Mr. Burckhalter is the professor of astronomy in the Oakland High School, and the school board showed their appreciation of his service by voting him leave of absence under full pay. We can not tell our readers all that scientists hope for in this expedition, but we are sure of this, that the personnel of the party of the expedition will do all that men can do.