Record

CollectionABDNP University of Aberdeen, Natural Philosophy Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments
Object NameAuroral camera
Object NumberABDNP:200561a
Brief DescriptionCamera designed for auroral photography. Features are very fast lens, fixed focus, 6 exposures per "plate", Alt/Az adjustable mount, shutter can be operated by hand wearing a thick glove. Smoothly adjustable iris calibrated "1.25, 1.5, 1.8, 2.3, 3.2, 4.5, 6.3, 9, 12, 18, 25". Shutter black velvet backing on hinged metal plate. 6 exposures achieved on a single sheet of quarter plate film by relocating lens between exposures - 3 click-stop vertical positions coupled with horizontal slide adjustment. Uncalibrated tilt adjustment on cast from that fixes with single thread to wooden stand.
Used by James Paton to record auroras as part of his professional interest in upper atmospheric physics. The design believed to have been originated by Carl Stormer, pioneer of auroral photography and classification. Only a small number were ever made.
MaterialsWooden stand, cast brass supporting frame, plate aluminium components, glass lens elements
Conditiongood
Completenesscomplete
Completeness Noteincludes single film holder mounted
Makerunknown, but see marks on lens in "description" field
Object Production Placelens manufactured in Berlin
Object Production Date1920-1950
Object History NoteUsed by James Paton
Inscription ContentLens marked "R,K, f:1.25 50mm D.R.P. ASTRO-GESELLSCHAFT BERLIN No 15651".
Publication NoteLEMUR database; Dr M Gadsden, former Senior Lecturer n Natural Philosophy
Aquisition Sourcethe daughter of James Paton
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