McMath–Hulbert Observatory facts for kids
Quick facts for kids McMath–Hulbert Observatory |
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| Location | Lake Angelus, Michigan, USA |
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Coordinates
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42°41′52″N 83°19′09″W / 42.697648°N 83.319175°W
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| Established | 1929 |
The McMath-Hulbert Solar Observatory is a special place in Lake Angelus, Michigan, USA, where scientists study the Sun. It started in 1929 as a private observatory. A father and son, Francis Charles McMath and Robert Raynolds McMath, built it with their friend, Judge Henry Hulbert.
In 1932, the observatory was given to the University of Michigan. The university ran it until 1981. After that, it became privately owned again.
Contents
What is the McMath-Hulbert Solar Observatory?
The McMath-Hulbert Solar Observatory is a place dedicated to studying our Sun. It uses special telescopes and tools to watch the Sun's activity. This helps us understand more about space and how the Sun affects Earth.
Early Discoveries and Sun Movies
In 1932, the observatory got a new 10.5-inch reflector telescope. They also added a unique tool called a spectroheliokinematograph. This long word means a device that could take motion pictures of the Sun!
The McMaths became famous for these movies. They made the very first films of solar prominences moving. Solar prominences are huge loops of gas that shoot out from the Sun's surface. Watching them move helped scientists learn a lot.
Later, the observatory also studied the Sun's light in the near infrared. This is a type of light we can't see. In the 1950s, they helped with a program to watch for solar flares. Solar flares are sudden, powerful bursts of energy from the Sun.
Connection to Kitt Peak Observatory
Robert McMath and another astronomer, Keith Pierce, helped create another important telescope. This was the McMath–Pierce solar telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory near Tucson, Arizona. It opened in 1962 and is one of the largest solar telescopes in the world.
Who Runs the Observatory Today?
Today, the McMath-Hulbert Solar Observatory is privately owned. However, a small group of amateur astronomers runs it. They are a non-profit organization. They continue the observatory's legacy of studying the Sun and sharing their passion for space.
See also
In Spanish: Observatorio McMath-Hulbert para niños
