Observer of Observatories: The Journal of Thomas Bugge's Tour of Germany, Holland & England in 1777
Observer of Observatories: The Journal of Thomas Bugge’s Tour of Germany, Holland & England in 1777
In 1777, the Danish astronomer Thomas Bugge (1740-1815) was appointed professor of mathematics and astronomy at the University of Copenhagen. Keen to modernise the existing observatory on top of the Round Tower, he travelled through Germany to Holland and England to learn more about the state of astronomy and instrument-making in these countries. During his tour he kept a journal in which he noted what he saw, whom he met and which books and instruments he bought. He also included dozens of sketches and drawings, which greatly add to the historical value of his manuscript. The document lay undiscovered in the Royal Library at Copenhagen until 1969, when Kurt Moller Pedersen found it and prepared a provisional transcript. Forty years later, this journal is now made available and Bugge’s drawings are complemented by portraits of academics and instrument-makers and by photographs of buildings and instruments, many of which survive in museums today. This richly illustrated and fully annotated edition of Bugge’s travel journal will be of value for anyone who is interested in the history of science and technology in the 18th century.
This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in approx 4 weeks
Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.
Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.