George Ellery Hale and Mt. Wilson Observatory: the development of a modern astrophysical research institution

This thesis will focus on Hale's astronomical career, particularly his research and organizational efforts at Kenwood, Yerkes, and Mount Wilson Observatories from approximately 1890-1920. This time frame allows for an adequate discussion of Hale's role in the development of American astrophysical research, however, I will not discuss Hale's efforts on behalf of the National Academy of Sciences (other than his work on behalf of the International Union for Cooperation in Solar Research) or his efforts on behalf of the California Institute of Technology's 200-inch telescope. An analysis of those topics would broaden the discussion into Hale's efforts to organize national and international scientific research, and to organize and build research institutions such as the California Institute of Technology. The chosen time frame and focus limit the discussion to Hale's astrophysical research and funding activities but exclude Hale's myriad activities after 1920 that could not be adequately covered in a thesis-length format. This thesis will examine the technical innovations in telescope design and observatory construction pioneered by George Ellery Hale, his efforts to organize finding, work, and research at the Yerkes and Mount Wilson Observatories, and his influence upon the development of American astronomy. Under Hale's directorship and the Carnegie Institution of Washington, Mount Wilson was the first observatory to fully implement organizational methods originated in American industry.