Abstract:
Reports of unusual phenomena visible only during total solar eclipses sparked huge interest among nineteenth century astronomers. The subsequent rise in eclipse expeditions, which often blurred the line between research and holiday, was aided by concurrent instrument advancements, improved global transport links, and unprecedented state support. The Greenwich Royal Observatory's expedition to Northern Europe to view the eclipse of 1851 was the first large scale operation of its kind by British astronomers, although little scholarly attention has been paid to this event. 

This talk focuses on the extensive preparations for this expedition, spearheaded by the Astronomer Royal George Airy, and observations of the eclipse in Sweden and Norway. In the months leading up to the eclipse, Airy worked with notable British and foreign astronomers to draft and distribute detailed observing instructions covering every known research question. After publication of this guide, Airy successfully approached the Admiralty to fund an expedition, emphasising the honour of the British government and his own expertise as an observer of the 1842 eclipse. The Admiralty, however, stopped short of providing a steamship which required Airy to coordinate a massive international diplomatic operation to arrange private transport and guarantee easy passage for astronomers around Northern Europe. British observers were spread around Sweden and Norway for the eclipse, with bad weather unfortunately spoiling the event for many. However, the organisational success of this endeavour would provide a roadmap for future expeditions throughout the century, but would also set high expectations, particularly around state support.