Feature Article
James Dunlop (1793–1848)
James Dunlop (1793-1848), astronomer, was born on 31 October 1793 at Dalry, Ayrshire, Scotland, the son of John Dunlop, weaver, and his wife Janet, née Boyle. After primary level his education was at night-school in Beith where he worked in a thread factory. He was constructing telescopes at 17, and some ten years later an acquaintance with Sir Thomas Brisbane developed his interest in astronomy. When appointed governor of New South Wales, Brisbane resolved to establish an observatory, and chose...