The ALPHA Observatory continues to make excellent progress towards first light. On Monday, June 6, ALPHA’s observatory system arrived on campus. A post-delivery inspection was performed by the project's Summer Intern, Julianna Reese, and the observatory dome sections were transferred to the construction site. University facilities completed deck framing/flooring and poured concrete at each of the eight posts. On the morning of Tuesday, June 7, the observatory dome structure was assembled and initial dome drive motors were dry-fitted in preparation for installation.
“We are finally getting to a point where ALPHA looks like an observatory”, says Prof. Mabson. “Many of ALPHA’s observatory systems still need to be tested, but it’s enjoyable to see the excitement in the university and our local community as ALPHA slowly comes to life”.
There are big plans for ALPHA in the future, and more information on the many projects and collaborations it will benefit will be posted soon.
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