40 Foot Telescope

40 Foot Telescope

The Forty-foot Telescope, was constructed in the early 60s for the purpose of determining if radio sources are variable. As far as we know, it was the first completely automated telescope. After sitting idle for nearly 2 decades, the 40' was recommissioned in 1987 as an educational telescope. Students ranging from 5th graders to graduate students use the telescope to investigate the radio universe. RARE CATS teachers complete extensive research projects using the 40', and Chautauqua Short Couse participants have access as well. In addition, amateur astronomers routinely make use of this telescope.

The Forty-foot Observer's Manual is available as a PDF file. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this file.

Forty-foot data , in ascii format, is available. You will see four columns of numbers: Right ascension (celestial longitude), declination (celestial latitude), data points for each of our two receiver channels: Channel A and B. Forty-foot calibration numbers are given for the time when the data was collected. These may not be current values. The best way to view this data is to import it into a spreadsheet and create a graph. Microsoft Excel works well. Graphed, the data will then resemble a stripchart recording. Those of you who have used the Forty-foot, will immediately know what to do at that point!

Connect with NRAO

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory and Green Bank Observatory are facilities of the U.S. National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.

Founded in 1956, the NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..."

AUI collaborates with the scientific community and research sponsors to plan, build, and operate cutting-edge facilities. We cultivate excellence, deliver value, enhance education, and engage the public.