Thomas King (New Zealand)

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Thomas King (1858–1916) was a New Zealand astronomer and politician.

Contents 1 History 2 Legacy 3 Use 4 Restoration 5 Reference

[edit] History

He served in the 1st New Zealand Parliament, but chose not to stand for re-election. At the end of the 1st Parliament, he declared himself "tired of political life with its anxieties, cares, and responsibilities - with my severance from my home and my family". Financial worries may also have played a part - King was not by any means wealthy, and was consequently a notable champion of remuneration and expenses for MPs.

Thomas King took over the charge of the Carter Observatory in 1887 from the Reverend Arthur Stock, vicar of St Peters. (former astronomer in charge of the Wellington time-ball station on Lambton House Quay).

[edit] Legacy

Thomas King has an astronomical observatory facility named after him at Carter Observatory in Wellington, New Zealand.

[edit] Use

Thomas King Observatory Ataira Te Ao Nui. The Thomas King Observatory in Wellington, near the Carter Observatory, is now in constant use following the restoration of it and its telescope. This paper introduces the history of the observatory.

• Volume 42, number 4. December 2003. P 3

[edit] Restoration

Refurbishment of the Thomas King Telescope at Carter Observatory by Gordon Hudson. In May 2001 Gordon began the refurbishment of the 5inch Grubb Telescope housed in the Thomas King Observatory. This telescope was made in 1882 by Grubb in Dublin and over its 120 years it is in remarkably good condition.

• Southern Stars Volume 42, number 4. December 2003. Pp 4 - 6

[edit] Reference

• Carter Observatory History Carter Observatory - History