The endless mantra : innovation at the Keck Observatory
Name
64637845-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
2.21 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
727c94eb386a1ba511b820ce00732f86
Author(s)
Bobra, Monica Godha
Advisor(s)
Marcia Bartusiak.
Alternative Title
Innovation at the Keck Observatory
Date Issued
2005
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
A study of historical, current, and future developments at the Keck Observatory revealed a thriving philosophy of innovation. Intended to defy obsoletion and keep the observatory competitive over long time scales, this philosophy continues to resonate with Keck Observatory scientists. The Keck Observatory consists of two 1 0-meter telescopes situated near the apex of Mauna Kea on the big island of Hawaii. Three main innovations keep the observatory competitive. The observatory contains the first modem active optics-controlled segmented primary mirror, principally designed by Dr. Jerry Nelson. Though it currently reigns as the world's largest aperture at 10 meters, monolithic mirror supporters still question its viability. The observatory also links both primary mirrors together as a single 20-meter telescope using interferometry. Finally, the observatory employs both a natural and laser guide star adaptive optics system. Forward-thinking Keck scientists, however, are researching multi-conjugate adaptive optics systems. As a result of its innovations, Keck has retained its position as a major player in the realm of observational astronomy for over a decade.
Description
Thesis (S.M.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Humanities, Program in Writing and Humanistic Studies, 2005.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 27-30).
Subjects
Program in Writing and Humanistic Studies.
MIT Department
MIT Program in Writing & Humanistic Studies
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