Instrumentation and Institutionalization: Colonial Science and the Observatorio Meteorológico de Manila, 1865–1899

Abstract

The scientific endeavors of the Observatorio Meteorológico de Manila in the nineteenth century brought about major changes in colonial science in the Philippines. The observatory pioneered the modern study of weather, climate, and natural hazards through the use of instruments and apparatus it invented and produced. This article explores how, through its programs and projects, the observatory operationalized colonial science, particularly meteorology, to promote a new understanding of weather and natural phenomena and create new avenues for public engagement.

Keywords: Observatorio de Manila • colonial science • Jesuits • meteorology • meteorological instruments