Discover the Universe; and thus technology and science
- Reference number
- IAa08-0011
- Start and end dates
- 090101-091231
- Amount granted
- 400 000 SEK
- Administrative organization
- Uppsala University
- Research area
- Other
Summary
As part of a national program within the framework of The International Year of Astronomy in 2009 we shall make modern astronomical instruments available for observations at a distance through Internet for high-school (gymnansie-) students. Here we apply for means to make a advanced robotic telescope at the Tycho Brahe Observatory in Malmö with a modern CCD camera accessible. The telescope has already been used in this way, but this is fairly complex in practice; a more wide use needs considerable upgrading of control systems, writing of manuals etc. An additional application will be submitted later this year, containing a similar proposal to make a radio telescope at Onsala Space Observatory accessible to high-school students. When upgraded, these telescopes will offer the students interesting insights into advanced control systems, modern detector technology, scientific methodology, and thrilling aspects of contemporary astrophysics. From wide experience we know that astronomical observations of this character are found very attractive by large groups of students. They thus provide a stimulating way to modern technology and science in general. As a complementary to the development of practical telescope use we shall also produce an exhibition presenting the telescope development since Galilei to the most advanced instruments, to be shown to high-school students and the public.