Wera Hobhouse Captivated By Bath’s Herschel Museum

28 February 2019

Bath MP Wera Hobhouse visited the Herschel Museum of Astronomy on New King Street...

“This museum is a brilliant example of what makes Bath such a unique and fascinating city,” Wera said. “It brings a facet of history to life in a very accessible way, providing insights into the lives of the brother and sister astronomers William and Caroline Herschel,” said Wera. Their work had an impact on the development of modern science and space exploration. In addition to being distinguished astronomers, the Herschels were talented musicians.

Wera toured the museum with Charles Draper, Chairman of the William Herschel Foundation and Claire Dixon, Bath Preservation Trust Museums Director and Deputy Chief Executive.

From the house on New King Street, using a telescope he designed himself, William discovered the planet Uranus in 1781. His observations helped to double the known size of the solar system. The museum features a replica of this telescope. William helped develop the science of building telescopes and used the ground floor of the house as a workshop. King George III rewarded him for his work, and he received the Copley Medal. Caroline also made a huge contribution to the field of astronomy.

The Herschel Museum hosts a range of learning activities for all ages, including workshops and stargazing evenings. A new exhibition opening on 16th March highlights William’s groundbreaking discovery of infrared radiation. The museum is one of four owned and operated by the Bath Preservation Trust.

Visit the Herschel Museum website for more details.

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