Instrumentation, Practice, and Observation: The Making and Use of Visual Records in American Astrophysics, 1860-1914

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Working with Dr. Timothy Lenoir of Stanford University, Dr. Pang is examining the production and reproduction of visual records in 19th century American astrophysics. Large telescopes, cameras, and spectrographs were highly promising technologies to 19th century astrophysicists, but they were difficult to use, and the images hard to produce, replicate, and analyze. Dr. Pang is studying how those problems and opportunities were dealt with, and how they changed astrophysical research. Dr. Pang is beginning his research by examining how the technologies affected the work and workplaces of astronomers. New telescope systems, consisting of larger optics, accurate tracking mechanisms, and photographic technology, created opportunities for new research programs. However, the new technical skills and training they required reshaped the craft of observing, and created a need for specialists to analyze and reduce large masses of data. He is then examining how printing technologies--engraving, lithography, etc.--defined what images astronomers could reproduce and share with their colleagues in journals and personal communications. He is also examining how the new images were used in long-distance collaborative research. Finally, he is examining why large telescopes and photography did not displace drawing and direct observation in a few research areas. By taking this systemic view, and examining the entire range of work required to produce, share, and use visual records--by moving from the telescope, to the analysis room, to the printer's shop, to the scientific journal and private letter--Dr. Pang will show how the production of visual records changed the practice of astrophysical observation and the making of astrophysical knowledge.