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Primary mirror of the Hobby-Eberly Telescope
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Primary mirror of the Hobby-Eberly Telescope
Hobby-Eberly telescope. Astronomer with the primary mirror of the Hobby-Eberly Telescope (HET). Commissioned in late 1997, the HET has the worlds largest primary mirror. The 11-metre mirror consists of 91 identical 1-metre hexagonal segments. The use of a segmented mirror greatly reduces construction costs. Unlike most telescopes, the HET tracks objects across the sky not by rotating the entire telescope but by moving just a few focusing instruments suspended above the primary mirror. This reduces by more than ten times the amount of mass that must be moved under precise control. Photographed at the McDonald Observatory in the Davis mountains of Texas, USA
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Media ID 6453471
© DAVID PARKER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Astrophysics Hexagon Mirror Of Telescope Optical Telescope Primary Mirror Telescope
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the primary mirror of the Hobby-Eberly Telescope (HET), an astronomical marvel that revolutionizes our exploration of the cosmos. Commissioned in late 1997, this groundbreaking telescope boasts the world's largest primary mirror, measuring a staggering 11 meters in diameter. What makes it truly remarkable is its composition - consisting of 91 identical hexagonal segments, each spanning one meter. The ingenious use of a segmented mirror significantly reduces construction costs while maintaining exceptional optical performance. Unlike conventional telescopes, which rotate entirely to track celestial objects across the sky, the HET employs a unique approach. It moves only a few focusing instruments suspended above the primary mirror, reducing mass movement by more than tenfold and enabling precise control. Captured at McDonald Observatory nestled amidst Texas' Davis mountains, this photograph beautifully captures both scientific ingenuity and natural beauty. The intricate hexagonal pattern adorning the massive mirror serves as a testament to human innovation in unlocking secrets hidden within distant galaxies. As we gaze upon this awe-inspiring image from Science Photo Library, we are reminded of humanity's insatiable curiosity about our universe and our relentless pursuit to unravel its mysteries. This photograph encapsulates not just cutting-edge technology but also represents countless hours spent by astronomers and astrophysicists dedicated to expanding our knowledge beyond terrestrial boundaries through their tireless observations with this magnificent instrument – Hobby-Eberly Telescope.
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