Astronomers waiting for an eclipse, India, December, 1871.

Engraving from the 'Illustrated London News' based on a photograph taken by Mr Webster, the Collector of Mangalore, showing a group of British astronomers waiting for a total eclipse at Bekul Fort, or Baikal, in south Canara, India on 12 December, 1871. The eclipse was visible from part of Southern India and the north of Ceylon. The group were part of a large expedition that travelled to India under the direction of the astronomer, Norman Lockyer, who is seated to the left of the group. Captain Maclear is standing on a packing case observing the sun through a spectroscope. Also seen are Mr Pringle of the Madras Public Works Department (seated) and his asistant, Mr Fernandez.