The R.R.S. Research

Abstract

FURTHER information is now available about the progress in the construction of the R.R.S. Research. It may be recalled that the purpose of this vessel is primarily the determination of the magnetic elements at sea, work that was formerly undertaken by the S.S. Carnegie, a non-magnetic ship operated by the Carnegie Institution of Washington. The Carnegie was unfortunately destroyed by fire, after an explosion, when loading petrol, at Samoa nine years ago. During the intervening period, the magnetic data in certain parts of the oceans have become uncertain; it is known that in some areas there have been considerable changes in the secular variations of the magnetic elements, which are not adequately controlled by recent observations. In certain areas, existing charts of the magnetic declination may be in error by four or five degrees. It is fitting that Great Britain, as the principal maritime nation, should accept the responsibility for the work formerly undertaken by the Carnegie Institution, by constructing and operating a nonmagnetic ship.