An Essay on the Method of Determining the Difference of Longitude between Places at Land, from the observed Transits of the Moon over their Meridians, with a demonstration and example.

LOWE, Gavin.

Published by London: Printed by W. Lane, 1803

About this Item

First edition of this rare pamphlet, recorded in only three institutions on WorldCat. A rather enigmatic figure in the history of British astronomy, Lowe established an observatory at his home in Paradise Row, Islington. Writing out of concern about "erroneous or imperfect" methods currently circulating (p. 3), he describes a method based on "the observed increase of the Moon's right ascension in passing from the first to the second meridian, and the increase of the Sun's and Moon's right ascension in twelve hours' apparent time" (p. 3). Lowe (c.1743-1815) was known to his friends as "a gentleman eminently skilled in the mathematics and in the knowledge of theoretical and practical astronomy" (Firminger, p. 102). He patronized leading makers of astronomical instruments, housing a fine collection in Paradise Row. For example, he commissioned Edward Troughton to make the Troughton Transit Circle, later used to much affect by the British astronomer John Lee (1783-1866), after whom it is sometimes referred. Copies can be found at the Caird Library of the National Maritime Museum, University College London, and Bryn Athyn College. Thomas Firminger, "On the Compensation Mercurial Pendulum of Mr. Gavin Lowe", Philosophical Magazine and Journal, vol. 54, 1819. Octavo (210 x 127 mm), pp. 8. Woodcut diagram in text. Disbound, with sewing holes visible. Spine folds fragile, lightly browned: a very good copy.

Seller Inventory # 165878

Bibliographic Details

• Title: An Essay on the Method of Determining the Difference of Longitude between Places at Land, from the observed Transits of the Moon over their Meridians, with a demonstration and example.
• Publisher: London: Printed by W. Lane, 1803
• Edition: 1st Edition