Research I observatory receives new telescope

Large pieces of a Ritchey–Chrétien telescope were lifted into the Research I observatory this morning. (George Yanez)

Despite unfavorable weather conditions, a new Ritchey–Chrétien telescope was successfully lifted in the Research I observatory this morning.

Large pieces of the telescope will be assembled today, but the telescope will take several weeks before becoming fully functional, said Observatory Director Harold Geller. The telescope should be ready for student use by the fall semester.

“[The Ritchey–Chrétien telescope will] allow students to get hands on experience with a professional grade telescope,” said Geller.

The telescope, which has a 32 inch diameter mirror, cost $300,000 and was paid for through lab fees, funds from the university and donors. The new telescope will be the largest on-campus telescope in the region.

The telescope was lifted into the observatory by a nine-story crane that cost around $10,000 to rent for the morning.