The Recent Progress of Astronomy

Elias Loomis (1811–1889), Professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy at the University of the City of New York, published the third edition of this key work in 1856, at a time when the discipline of astronomy was making rapid advances. Recent technological progress had led to a phenomenal number of astronomical discoveries: the existence of a new planet, Neptune; a new satellite and ring for Saturn; irregularities in the movement of many planets and stars; thirty-six new asteroids; numerous comets; extensive catalogues of stars; and new and important observations on the sun. Loomis' report is a treasure-trove of information regarding these discoveries and the significance they had at the time. The chapters on the history of American observatories, various astronomical expeditions, public astronomical surveys, and telescope manufacturing in the USA provide access to information not otherwise available. Recent Progress is a key text in the history of astronomy.