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The 20" telescope was removed from the Observatory in June 2000. Over the next year, Company 7 of Laurel, MD, cleaned the mirrors, rebuilt the drives, installed a computerized go-to system, and other system upgrades. Below is a visual record of the process.
The old 20" in its home position |
Another view of the 20" before its renovation (note the grey and blue paint). You can also just see Dr. Veilleux behind the left finder scope. |
The 20" lifts off! |
20" mid-air |
The 20" is loaded onto the back of a truck for transport to Company 7 |
The 20" bay, base recently repainted by Tom Stickle's Northwestern High School students, eagerly awaits the telescope after a 14 month absence. |
After a tour of the greater DC Area, the telescope returns to the Observatory |
Getting the 20" ready for lift off. |
And we have lift off..... |
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Marty Cohen of Company 7 and John of Optical Guidance Systems begin reconnecting vital telescope components. |
Marty and Observatory Coordinator Gretchen Walker unwrap the telescope and prepare to fire it up. |
Some of the brand new drive gearing machined as part of the renovations. |
A sample of Before pictures...
Last Updated: Monday December 08, 2008 by Elizabeth Warner
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