MURAL CIRCLE
\mjˈʊɹə͡l sˈɜːkə͡l], \mjˈʊɹəl sˈɜːkəl], \m_j_ˈʊ_ɹ_əl s_ˈɜː_k_əl]\
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[L.] A large graduated circle, to which is fixed an astronomical telescope, the axis of the latter coinciding with a diameter of the former. It moves in the plane of the meridian on a strong horizontal axis let into a massive pier or wall, and secured by screws so as to be capable of adjustment. It is used in connexion with a transit instrument for making the observations which determine the exact position of the heavenly bodies on the great sphere. The transit instrument serves to determine their right ascensions, the Mural Circle their declinations.
By Henry Percy Smith
Word of the day
Snake's-head
- Guinea-hen flower; -- so called in England because its spotted petals resemble the scales of a snake's head.