Relocated from South Kensington in 1912, the Solar Physics Observatory in Cambridge has a fascinating history. It stands as a testament to the evolution of astronomical research. Before us stands an attractive brick building. This building once housed pioneering solar observations.
The Solar Physics Observatory’s journey began as an unusual endeavor. Its focus was daytime astronomy, specifically solar physics. This contrasted with traditional nighttime observations. Sir Norman Lockyer, a journalist and editor of Nature, founded it. He lacked formal academic training, which initially drew hostility.
Lockyer started assembling instruments in South Kensington. The 1851 Commissioners granted him space in Exhibition Road. Here, he erected temporary structures for his work. In 1885, Lockyer became Professor of Astronomical Physics. In 1887, he took charge of the new Solar Physics Observatory.
A fruitful collaboration began between the Observatory and the Normal School of Science. Solar Physics Observatory researchers taught at the School. Students used the Observatory. Their research focused on the sun, stellar spectroscopy, and meteorology.
Facing land pressures in South Kensington, the Solar Physics Observatory moved to Cambridge. This happened in 1912. Lockyer departed for Sidmouth. The Cambridge location continued the Observatory’s legacy.
The Institute of Astronomy was formed in 1972. It was an amalgamation of three institutions. These were the Cambridge University Observatory, the Solar Physics Observatory, and the Institute of Theoretical Astronomy.
The Solar Physics Observatory building now serves as laboratories and offices. Although observational studies of the Sun have been discontinued here, the building still carries the legacy of solar research. It stands as a reminder of the Solar Physics Observatory’s contributions to astronomy. It represents a shift towards new areas of research.