PHILOSOPHICAL
TRANSACTIONS:
GIVING SOME
ACCOMPT
OF THE PRESENT
Undertakings, Studies, and Labours
OF THE
INGENIOUS
IN MANY
CONSIDERABLE PARTS
OF THE
WORLD
____________

Vol I.
For Anno 1665, and 1666.

The Introduction.

Whereas there is nothing more necessary for promoting the improvement of Philosophical Matters, than the communicating to such, as apply their Studies and Endeavours that way, such things as are discovered or put in practise by others; it is therefore thought fit to employ the Press, as the most proper way to gratifie those, whose engagement in such Studies, and delight in the advancement of Learning and profitable Discoveries, doth entitle them to the knowledge of what this Kingdom, or other parts of the World, do, from time to time, afford, as well of the progress of the Studies, Labours, and attempts of the Curious and learned in things of this kind, as of their compleat Discoveries and performances:  To the end, that such Productions being clearly and truly communicated, desires after solid and usefull knowledge may be further entertained, ingenious Endeavours and Undertakings cherished, and those, addicted to and conversant in such matters, may be invited and encouraged to search, try, and find out new things, impart their knowledge to one another, and contribute what they can to the Grand design of improving Natural Knowledge, and perfecting all Philosophical Arts, and Sciences, All for the Glory of God, the Honour and Advantage of these Kingdoms, and the Universal Good of Mankind.

Imagine it is 1665.  You are one of the early Fellows of the Royal Society, or perhaps an active correspondent of its Secretary, Henry Oldenburg.

Write an article for publication in the PhilTrans on a subject you believe:

• will be of interest to its readers
• will promote the "improvement of Philosophical Matters" and
• will "gratifie those, whose ... delight in the advancement of Learning and profitable Discoveries doth entitle them" to knowledge of the phenomena you have witnessed.

Contribute what you can "to the Grand design of improve Natural knowledge, and perfecting all Philosophical Arts, and Sciences..."