The Laboratory Astrophysics Division (LAD) of the American Astronomical Society (AAS) has named Dr. Brett McGuire of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) the recipient of its 2019 Early Career Award. Given to an individual who has made important contributions to laboratory astrophysics within 10 years of receiving their PhD, the award recognizes McGuire for significant laboratory and observational advancements in our knowledge of the inventory and evolution of complex molecules in the interstellar medium.
Trio of ALMA Antennas
Three of the first ALMA antennas to be moved to the Array Operations Site (AOS). Getting multiple antennas to the AOS was integral to testing the array’s interferometric capabilities. The two antennas on either end of the image are North American antennas, while the center antenna is the Japanese design.
Sunny Day at the VLA
A VLA antenna and Transporter soaking up some sun on a clear day on the Plains of San Agustin, New Mexico.
Night at the OSF
Two North American 12-meters sit under the stars at the ALMA Operations Support Facility (OSF). Towards the left of the image in the distance is the Holography Tower. The antennas are able to receive a signal from this tower and use it to make a map of their surfaces. The individual panels that make up their surface can then be adjusted so that the surface is as close to being perfect parabola as possible.
The Milky Way and the VLA
The Milky Way Galaxy seen over the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array west of Socorro, New Mexico.
Passing by the Flowers
A VLA antenna being transported alongside a patch of blooming wildflowers on the Plains of San Agustin.