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The Dept. of Astronomy records contain the records of the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) observatories visiting committee, 1980-1985; the chairman's daily file for William A. Hiltner and Robert P. Kirshner / Douglas Richstone, 1960-1988; and various subject files.

The records of the Department of Astronomy at the University of Michigan document the internal workings of the department, its relationship with the University and the scholarly community, and issues relating to the observatories under the direction of the Department, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s. The records have been divided into three series: Chairman's Files; Departmental Topical Files; and Appeals Complaints Committee.

Astronomer, professor of astronomy at the University of Chicago, later at the University of Michigan. Biographical material, correspondence, topical files, teaching materials, research files, and photographs relating to professional interests, including his interest in photoelectric photometry leading to the discovery of interstellar polarization; also files relating to various observatories.

The papers of William A. Hiltner cover his active role both in the Department of Astronomy at the University of Michigan and in the field of astronomy in general. The bulk of the collection consists of correspondence and topical files. Also included are some teaching and research materials and files relating to his professional associations.