model of Hubble telescope by author
Toronto. Many of us ‘scan the skies’ as well as searching tera firma for old cameras and photos. Image collectors may even have some ‘sky’ photos in their collection, and if so, will find the article noted here of special interest.
As volume 25 of the journal coincided with our quarter century anniversary, editor Bob Lansdale took it upon himself to solicit memorable articles from our exchange members.
For issue 25-1, the American Photographic Historical Society (APHS) submitted an article it had reprinted courtesy of George Helmke (the article first appeared in Sperry Observations in 1997). At the time Mr Helmke was both an APHS member, author of this article, editor of Sperry Observations, and curator of the Fleetwood (NJ) Museum. Reproduction by the APHS was secured by the late George Gilbert, editor of Photographica (APHS journal), author, and lecturer (Mr Gilbert also spoke at a PHSC meeting).
Mr Helmke begins his article (title of this post) with this prècis. “Marcia Bartusiak, in her popular book Through a Universe Darkly, makes the statement, “Photography turned out to be a technological advance as revolutionary to astronomy as the development of the telescope itself.” …A very strong statement, but is it justified?
“If we examine the role of photography in astronomy and consider its benefit to serious observers we may judge Bartusiak’s statement to be not far off target. The principal role of photography in astronomy is easily explained. It provides the astronomer with a means of recording the effects of photons (quanta), the units by which light is measured, accumulating them over an extended period of time on a light sensitive photographic emulsion or on a light sensitive electronic device.” …
Members delighted in reading Mr Helmke’s full article in 25-1 pdf on the free members-only DVD/thumb drive. You can too! Just join up! The fee is very inexpensive and easy to apply – see ‘MEMBERSHIP’ above or ‘Membership’ at right.
Questions can be sent to Lilianne at member@phsc.ca.
