Photo – Page 9 – National Radio Astronomy Observatory

VLA Background 1

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Configuring the Electronics at the Very Large Array, 1980

Combining the data from each antenna at the Very Large Array requires a series of specialized electronics in the receiver room of each telescope. Our electrical technician tests each connection before the installation. (April 1980).

On-the-Spot Assessment to Improve Scientist Engagement with the Public

Our advisors and team members who participated in the collaborative “On the Spot Assessment” Program, funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation. The program’s aim is to advance new approaches in the design and development of STEM learning in informal environments.

Grote Reber, Attu Alaska Solar Eclipse Expedition

While at National Bureau of Standards, Grote Reber participated in Naval Research Laboratories solar eclipse expedition to Attu, Alaska, August-September 1950. The weather was terrible but, because they were making radio observations, Reber was able to write in a 5 November 1950 letter to Dutch radio astronomer Jan Oort, “This was probably the first total eclipse which was successfully observed during a torrential downpour of rain in a gale!”

Happy New Year 2019!

Moonset over the Very Large Array in New Mexico. NRAO/AUI/NSF Jeff Hellerman

Sunrise at the VLA

Sunrise breaks over the Plains of San Agustin, New Mexico.

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility 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 U.S. 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.