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A study of the observational performance of the William Pitt 27-inch telescope
Tombaugh, Clyde William
Tombaugh, Clyde William
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Abstract
Modern astronomical research depends primarily upon the observation of celestial objects such as the moon, the sun, the planets, meteors, comets, stars and nebulae. Theoretical and laboratory research lend invaluable aid in interpreting what is observed. Theoretical work is frequently a guide for organized and systematic observation. Again, history has shown the need for testing advanced theoretical reasoning by direct observation. Indeed, some observational data are needed before any theoretical research can be attempted. Astronomical study is quite dependent on the accuracy and power of observation.
Experience has shown that telescopes with apertures from 20 to 40 inches are quite ideal for many kinds of astronomical work. However, if they are located in stormy regions, or on low land where disturbed air and haze prevail, or if situated where they are subjected to flashing air-way beacons, glaring street lights and car lights which rapidly fog very sensitive photographic plates, such telescopes cannot do very much useful work and cannot compete with those which are more favorably located.
The large telescope located on the campus of the University of Kansas is the result of a dream by a former member of the faculty, Dr. Dinsmore Alter, who was then Professor of Astronomy. It was his plan "to obtain an observatory and a computing staff, to work principally on the asteroids which already had been discovered". He felt that such an institution was needed in this country. Although the computing bureau which he had in mind did not materialize, yet the telescope has now reached completion. Dr. Alter intended to photograph various asteroids, measure their positions very accurately and check their ephemerides with the view of improving their orbital elements. For this kind of work the telescope is admirably suited.
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M.A. University of Kansas, Astronomy 1939
Date
1939-05-31
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University of Kansas
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William Pitt telescope