Observations of Halley's Comet and Venus

Abstract

IT may interest readers of NATURE to know that the planet Venus was visible—plainly visible—in Natal all day to-day up to the time of its setting. The air was wonder fully clear and free from dust or moisture. At four o'clock in the morning Venus was unusually brilliant, the light therefrom shining into my bedroom. Halley's comet rose above the horizon at about 4.30, and, although distinctly visible to the naked eye, was pale and insignificant compared to the planet. By six o'clock the comet was no longer visible, having paled away before the sun had actually risen. At mid-day excited groups of natives and Europeans were gazing with wonder at what was mistakenly considered to be Halley's comet visible in broad daylight! Venus was then in the zenith, her glory defying the power of the mid-day sun.