Jesse Garrison
PhD Candidate: Science and Technology Studies
University College London
I'm currently a PhD candidate in the Department of Science and Technology Studies at University College London (UCL).
I'm primarily interested in the history of astronomy, particularly nineteenth century solar research. My PhD thesis is provisionally entitled “British solar eclipse expeditions during the long nineteenth century” and explores the motivations and practicalities of astronomers travelling abroad to observe total solar eclipses.
In my current research I look at how eclipse expeditions evolved and adapted with changing attitudes around solar research, fluctuating government and organisational support, advancements in instrument design including new technologies such as photography and spectroscopy, as well as the shifting demographics of those conducting solar research.
Previously, I undertook research in astronomy and solar physics, including computer modelling of the upper atmosphere of M-dwarf class stars (see Publications).
In addition to my primary research, I'm also interested in:
- invisible labour in the history of astronomy, especially the role of women
- analysing historic scientific instruments
- the display and acquisition of museum artefacts
I am also a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society.