Meridian Circle
or TRANSIT CIRCLE, an instrument used in observatories in modern times to combine the functions of a transit instrument and of the old mural circle. A vertical circle is carried on the axis of the transit instrument and revolves with it, its divisións being read by micrometer microscopes mounted solidly on one of the piers. In this way both co-ordinates of the position of a heavenly body, its right ascension and declination are determined at the same meridian passage-a great saving liam Crookes, Lord Raleigh, and Sir Archibald Geikie in science, and literature has been so honored in Viscount Morley, Lord Cromer, Sir George Trevelyan, and Thomas Hardy. Sir Edward Elgar received the honor for music.
Honorary membership in the order has been conferred on distinguished men of other nations.