140 : Meteorological Technology and Urban Service : 1872-2012
140 years ago, the Zikawei Obervatory began meteorological, astronomical and geomagnetic obersvations, and played a significant role in the development of Shanghai. Although the services offered were private in the beginning, reserved for shipping companies and merchants, the Zikawei weather service quickly grew into a public service, benefiting the lives of all who chose to live in the city on the sea.
On December 1st, 1872, the Zikawei scientists opened the books for the first time in its 140-year history, despite the hard times, the wars, and the obvious cultural barriers, the unremitting efforts of generations of meteorologists that have walked the halls of this institution, kept the observations going. We are very proud today, to bestow upon this site the title of: "Centennial Climate Station".<br>The missionaries that established the Zikawei Observatory; known today as the Xujiahui Observatory, also played a significant role in development of modern science and technology in China. The scientific spirit of focused study, organized research, and proactive adaptation to a developing city continues to inspire us today in the 21st century.<br>This book is not only a look back at those people and their achievements, but also a look at what the future holds for Shanghai's meteorological service. It is our sincere hope that by continuing the Xujiahui tradition of research and technological innovation, we always walk in the forefront of the times, continuously enhance our international cooperation, make greater contributions to the sustainable development of Shanghai as an international metropolis, and serve as a bellwether for China's meteorological modernization. (Préface du Dr. TANG Xu, Director-General of Shanghai Meteorological Service)
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