In Life and In Death: The Changing Fortunes of John Flamsteed, by Graham Dolan - 24 April 2025

Graham Dolan introduced us to John Flamsteed, the first Astronomer Royal, who held the post from its creation in 1675.

Flamsteed made eclipse observations between 1675 and 1719, including the total eclipse of 1715. He produced detailed drawings showing the timing and angles of the eclipse. His extensive observational work was later compiled in his Historia Coelestis Britannica, published posthumously in 1725.

Many of these observations were made from the original Quadrant Room at the Royal Observatory. Although the room itself no longer exists in its original form, visitors can still explore Flamsteed House and see replicas of the mural quadrants and other instruments he would have used.

The Royal Observatory has undergone many changes over the years. Graham gave us a comprehensive overview of the various plans and alterations made to the buildings, right up to the 1990s. The site today is very different from the original 1675 design by Christopher Wren, which replaced the old Greenwich Castle.

Graham also spoke about Flamsteed’s often difficult relationships with fellow scientists such as Isaac Newton and Robert Hooke. Flamsteed's disputes with Newton were particularly notable, involving disagreements over the unauthorized publication of Flamsteed's observations.

In 1725, Flamsteed’s Historia Coelestis Britannica was published posthumously, edited by his wife. It contained all his original observations, including a catalogue of 2,935 stars - more accurate than any previous work. This publication is widely regarded as the first major contribution of the Royal Observatory Greenwich. 

You can explore Graham Dolan’s website at www.royalobservatorygreenwich.org, where you’ll find much more information about John Flamsteed and later Astronomers Royal.

Images by Bobby Manoo