The History of Astrophysics in Antarctica B. T. IndermuehleA,C, M. G. BurtonB, and S. T. MaddisonA A Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing, Swinburne University, VIC 3122, Australia B School of Physics, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia C E-mail:
[email protected] Abstract We examine the historical development of astrophysical science in Antarctica from the early 20th century until today. We find three temporally overlapping eras, each having a rather distinct beginning. These are the astrogeological era of meteorite discovery, the high energy era of particle detectors, and the photon astronomy era of microwave, sub–mm and infrared telescopes, sidelined by a few niche experiments at optical wavelengths. The favourable atmospheric and geophysical conditions are briefly examined, followed by an account of the major experiments and a summary of their results. Keywords: history and philosophy of astronomy – site testing – cosmic microwave back- ground – infrared: general – sub–millimetre – cosmic rays 1 Prehistory The first written account of astronomical observations south of the Antarctic Circle dates back to 1772 (Bayly & Cook 1782), when the appointed astronomer and navy officer William Bayly made astrometric measurements aboard the ships “Discovery” and “Resolution”. On their voyage, led by Captain James Cook, they circumnavigated Antarctica, crossing the Antarctic Circle three times from 1772 to 1775. The main objective of the observations was to establish positional accuracy in order to create charts of their discoveries. For that purpose they were equipped with several different compass designs, an astronomical quadrant and a Hadley sextant, as well as accurate chronometers built on the principles of Harrison’s ship chronometer (Andrewes 1996).