UNITED STATES NAVAL OBSERVATORY BUILDINGS AT WASHINGTON, D. C. 0 UNITED STATES NAVAL OBSERVATORY. N the heights north of the Georgetown and Rockville road, near Washington, is the United States Naval Observatory. It is the astronomical station of the Government, under control of the Bureau of Navigation, and is presided over by an officer of high rank who collects information of use to mariners, in matters of latitude and longitude, variation of the compass, accuracy of chronometers and other instruments used in the navigation of ships of war. The observatory is fully equipped with telescopes and all necessary instruments for scientific work. A 26-inch equatorial telescope is the most interesting feature to visitors. The floor of the observatory room, containing the telescope, can be raised or lowered by hydraulic press at the will of the operator, and the telescope can be adjusted through the dome to suit all emergencies. From the observatory, Washington time is telegraphed daily to all parts of the United States. It is open to visitors from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m., and on Thursday nights cards of invitation will admit visitors to look through the great telescope. |