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"One of the most important of astronomical instruments, consists of a telescope fixed to a horizontal axis, so as to revolve in the plane of the meridian, and is employed, as its name denotes, in the observation of the meridian transits of the heavenly bodies. The axis, which is the most important part of the instrument, and thus demands the utmost care in its construction, consists of a hollow sphere or cube, to opposite sides of which are tightly fastened the bases of two cones in whose apices the pivots are screwed; the sphere or cube is pierced for the admission of the telescope, which is firmly soldered at right angles to the axis." — Chambers, 1881

Transit Instrument

"One of the most important of astronomical instruments, consists of a telescope fixed to a horizontal…