Mapping the Sky

Abstract

By the time that the 30-inch refractor had been installed in Pulkovo and brought into full operation, Otto had turned 65. If he had thought of retirement before (Chapter 13), he must by then have been seriously considering it. He mentioned the matter again to Newcomb, in 1884:

More than 10 months have passed since we met in Hamburg. Since then I have had a very busy time, in which I have not been much able to have quiet sessions at the work-desk or to make customary observations, being more claimed, indeed, by paperwork, journeys, conferences, etc. As the most important result of this activity I see, perhaps, the indications that I have succeeded in arranging the choice of Dr. Backlund as member of the Academy, in place of the deceased Sawitsch. We have by this not only gained a very worthy colleague, but I see in his appointment still more a guarantee that, when some day I shall no longer be in a position to direct Pulkowa, at all events, in the choice of my successor the scientific interest will be kept principally in sight. Of such an eventuality I must naturally think more each year.¹