Every observer now knows that,
generally speaking, the position which the star appears to have is
not exactly the position in which the star does actually lie. The
observer is, however, able, by the application of the principles
which Bradley so clearly laid down, to apply to an observation the
correction which is necessary to obtain from it the true place in
which the object is actually situated. This memorable achievement at
once conferred on Bradley the highest astronomical fame. He tested
his discovery in every way, but only to confirm its truth in the most
complete manner.
Halley, the Astronomer Royal, died on the 14th, January, 1742, and
Bradley was immediately pointed out as his successor. He was
accordingly appointed Astronomer Royal in February, 1742. On first
taking up his abode at Greenwich he was unable to conduct his
observations owing to the wretched condition in which he found the
instruments. He devoted himself, however, assiduously to their
repair, and his first transit observation is recorded on the 25th
July, 1742. He worked with such energy that on one day it appears
that 255 transit observations were taken by himself alone, and in
September, 1747, he had completed the series of observations which
established his second great discovery, the nutation of the earth's
axis.
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