DUFFIELD'S DREAM

England. 1905. A young Australian astronomer is working as a lecturer/researcher at University College Reading. 

He spots a glaring problem.

Scientists are studying the Sun from observatories all across the northern hemisphere but in the southern hemisphere, it's a different story. There are few observatories below the equator.

Duffield begins to dream... it's a dream that takes dedication, drive, persistance and persuasion. He wants 'to fill a gap in the chain of astrophysical observatories round the Earth’.

But, the journey to establish a solar observatory in Australia, must have seemed as far off as the Sun itself!

Paris. 1907. Duffield is invited by eminent solar physicist Jules Janssento attend the International Congres des Etudes Solaires (International Congress of Solar Studies) at Meudon Observatory.

At this meeting, a notion is passed that the congress supports the establishment of a solar observatory in Australia.

England. 1909. Dr Duffield writes to Alfred Deakin, Prime Minister, detailing a list of the proposed gifts for a solar observatory. In response, Deakin writes on 19 November 1909:

Dear Sir,

I am much obliged for the detailed statement of the proposed gifts for a Solar Observatory which you have been good enough to supply in resposne to my request. I doubt if at this late period of the session we can find a place on Supplementary Estimates for the two purposes you suggest. If, however, Lord Farnham's Telescope is available on payment of freight and package to Australia for say £50 to £100, there will be no difficulty in providing this sum. In the same way the cost of imspecting any sites within the Federal Capital area can be provided without delay.

I am still hoping that the generous private donor or donors will be found willing to undertake the structure and equipment, and that your labors to this end will soon be fruitful.

I am, Yours very truly,

Alfred Deakin.

19 November 1909. Letter to Duffield from Alfred Deakin. Courtesy of the Academy of Science archives

England. 1910. Updated list of gifts and bequests 

Back in Australia, the Government is not so keen! King O'Malley corresponds directly with Duffield, stating that he would not support the building of a solar observatory in Australia. 

Undetered, Duffield found himself a backer in Alfred Deakin, who was at that time, the Leader of the Opposition. 

Between 1910 and 1923, support for a Commonwealth Solar Observatory is paused as global events, government priorities and economic pressures dominate decision making. 

 Finally, on 1 January 1924, the Commonwealth Solar Observatory is instituted. Dr. W. G. Duffield is appointed inaugural Director.