Bon voyage?
Hopeful transit chasers made long journeys to record the Venus transits of 1761 and 1769.
They faced tough challenges. The 1761 transit was visible from much of Asia and the Indian Ocean, but explorers risked getting caught up in the Seven Year War between England and France. In 1769 getting the best views meant braving the Arctic or still-uncharted parts of the Pacific Ocean.
Delicate scientific equipment had to survive tough journeys, as did seasick sailors. And of course the weather could play havoc with the best-laid plans.
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Image: Science Museum/SSPL |
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