A brief history of the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory

Author:

Steiger, Walter

Title:

A brief history of the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory

Year:

2008

Subject:

Astronomy Hawaii history Caltech Submillimeter Observatory (CSO) Mauna Kea history

Summary:

Dr. Robert Leighton, Dr. Gerry Neugebauer, and Al Moffet, a Caltech professor of radio astronomy, applied to the NSF for a grant to build a three-telescope mm-wavelength interferometer for use at the Owens Valley Radio Observatory (OVRO) site, and a single telescope for submillimeter work at a suitable high-altitude site. Mauna Kea was selected for the fourth telescope. Designing the dome began around 1981 and construction in Pasadena on the Caltech football field began in 1984. After dismantling, shipping to Hawaii, and reassemby, the installation was basically complete in 1987, although the formal dedication took place on November 22, 1986. First light, with an image of M82, took place on March 15, 1987.

URL:

http://www.cso.caltech.edu/outreach/log/CSO_History/

Collection:

Monographs