As I mentioned on April 2nd, the University of Toronto is currently planning on selling the David Dunlap Observatory - Canada's largest optical telescope - and surrounding area, which is due to the necessity of maintaining dark skies for the telescope, is a wildlife reserve. This decision, not surprisingly, has generated a fair bit of controversy. I recently received some more information on the issue from people opposed to the sale, which you can read about here and here. I'd be very interested to hear your opinions on the matter, please post them below.
Thanks.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
David Dunlap Observatory
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1 comment:
Thanks for bringing the David Dunlap Observatory issue to your listeners and readers. It is worth noting that American astronomers are re-evaluating the importance of small and medium aperture telescopes through the NOAO ReSTAR committee. The ReSTAR final report states that:
The science to be done with small and mid-size telescopes remains compelling and competitive in the era of big telescopes. Small and mid-size telescopes continue to produce innovative science in themselves, and to provide precursor and followup observations that enhance the scientific productivity of larger telescopes. Small and mid-size telescopes also enable scientific investigations that are not possible on larger telescopes.
By keeping the Dunlap Observatory and Park intact the University -- and the public -- gets to keep:
* a large working observatory that is still useful for spectroscopic research and public education.
* a working astronomical museum with early 20th century telescopes, period machine shops, optics labs, etc.
* a large urban green space and wildlife habitat that is much needed by the surrounding community.
* a significant heritage home and farmscape on a property that has historical significance in Canada.
By selling off the property at breakneck speed, the University of Toronto may accomplish the following:
* the loss of use a local 1.88 meter telescope that can still be used for research and teaching.
* the destruction of green space in exchange for a one-time cash infusion for astronomy research.
The University of Toronto should wake up and take full advantage of a useful facility that is right on its doorstep.
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