The Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, Victoria, B.C.

"The Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, Victoria, B.C." by J. S. Plaskett is a nonfiction work illuminating the origins and purpose of a vital astronomical center. It recounts the journey to establish the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, emphasizing its role in shaping Canadian astronomy. The book explores the observatory's selection of Victoria for its ideal skies and the innovative engineering of its massive 72-inch reflecting telescope. It also discusses its early research in areas like spectroscopy, uncovering secrets of stars’ movements and compositions. By blending technical explanations with the exciting discoveries made, Plaskett's book paints a picture of how this Canadian observatory deepened humanity's understanding of the cosmos.