ABSTRACT
Clerke went on to inform readers that the science had two main branches - the hoary field of astrometry, "which treats of the motions, mutual relations and dimensions of the heavenly bodies," and the neoteric field of astrophysics, "which treats of their physical constitution." Believing that astronomy was "among the more progressive sciences," she was optimistic that its "new and improved methods of research [would] ultimately lead to a comprehension of the universe." Today, as the twentieth century is closing, Clerke's general description of astronomy still rings true. Indeed, in portraying the acquisition of "a comprehension of the universe" as the discipline's ultimate goal, she seems almost to be anticipating the emergence of its third main branch - cosmology.
