UH Hilo Center for Maunakea Stewardship - Research Library

A new eye opens on the cosmos

Author:
Stix, Gary
Title:
A new eye opens on the cosmos
Periodical:
Scientific American
Year:
1999
Volume:
280
Pages:
104-111
Subject:
Gemini Observatory Astronomical observatories design and construction
Summary:
This document describes the harrowing three-day journey that carried the 8.1 meter mirror of the Gemini North Observatory 100 kilometers from the seaport on the island of Hawaii to the summit of Mauna Kea. Also described is the tight schedule with which the scientists and engineers had to work in an effort to obtain "first light" on the telescope by Christmas 1999, the missed targeted date, the effects that a long delay would have on the construction of the Gemini South Telescope in Chile, the financial "noose" with which the project struggled throughout its history, and how delays in the project could jeopardize Gemini's ability to ask for funds that would outfit the telescope with a full complement of instruments later on in the future.
Label:
Mauna Kea - Astronomy
Collection:
Periodicals