Description
This collection contains the papers of astronomer
Edison Pettit (1889-1962), who was on the staff of the Mount Wilson and Palomar Observatories. The correspondence
is chiefly with other astronomers in the United States and deals with astronomy in general including Pettit's work at Mount
Wilson,
telescopes, and ultraviolet light research. The rest of the collection is made up of manuscripts, notes, notebooks and printed
items.
Background
Edison
Pettit (1890-1962) was an astronomer on the staff of the Mount Wilson [and Palomar]
Observatories for thirty-five years. An observer and instrumentalist, he was a pioneer in
the early fields of infrared and ultraviolet research. His main interest was in the sun
but later expanded to include the moon and planets. His collaboration with Seth B.
Nicholson on the heat radiation from the planets and moon was the most significant
research on these bodies during the first half of the twentieth century.
Extent
6 boxes (3,100 pieces)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from or publish images of this material,
nor does it charge fees for such activities.
The responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining necessary permissions rests with the
researcher.
Availability
Open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department. For more information, contact Reader
Services.