LADD OBSERVATORY - DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

The construction of the Brown University Observatory dates back to May 1890. The building then opened its doors on October 21, 1891. It is named Ladd Observatory in honour of Herbert W. Ladd, Governor of Rhode Island from 1889 to 1892. Its first director, Professor Winslow Upton, very early launched a regular program of transit observations and star timing when passing through the south meridian... What for? What for? To establish precisely the legal time, which is essential at a time when trade is becoming predominant between the various nations. During visits to the site, you can admire some beautiful optical parts, such as the 30 cm diameter astronomical telescope (manufactured by John A. Brashear of Pittsburgh, as far as optics are concerned), meridian glasses, chronometers, clocks, chronographs, etc.