Genre:

Reportage, Drollery

Relevant illustrations:

wdct.

Subjects:

Astronomy, Instruments, Light, Observation

    Punch's 'astronomical correspondent's' account of his discovery of 'Albert's Hat' amongst the constellations. His astronomical observations treat the constellations as if they were the creatures after which they have been named. For example, after having walked 'most imprudently' into the 'mouth' of Leo, he observed the planet Mars 'with something on the top of his head'. Notes 'expressions' of Mars and of the constellations of 'Herschel' and the 'Great Bear'. Adds that when he combined his opera-glasses, a telescope, and spectacles, he achieved 'such a powerful focus' that he 'discovered the Albert Hat'. The illustration shows the constellations decidedly annoyed by the presence of Albert's hat in the heavens.