Hirsch Observatory
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| Hirsch Observatory | |
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| Organization: | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute |
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| Location: | Troy, New York (USA) |
| Telescopes | |
| Dome Telescope: | 16" Cassegrain Reflector |
The Hirsch Observatory is an astronomical observatory at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute(RPI) in Troy, New York. It is located on the roof of the Jonsson-Rowland Science Center (seen in picture) and is used by members of the Astrophysical Society as well as astronomy students in laboratory exercises. It is also frequently opened to the community for public viewing sessions. The observatory's main dome contains a 16" Cassegrain Reflector with CCD camera and fully computerized controls. The observatory also owns several smaller scopes, and a SBIG Spectrograph. The spectrograph has been used to catalog bright solar spectrum as part of a effort to create an online digital database of such spectra for astrophysical research.
[edit] History
The Student Observatory was completed on campus in 1942. It was built to house the institute's 12" equatorial reflector. Today, the instrument sits on display in the lobby of the observatory as a testament to the fine craftsmanship of Otto Rasmussen, the department's instrument maker. In 1980, the General Electric company donated the Boller and Chivens 16" Cassegranian telescope. The Hirsch Observatory was expanded and re-dedicated to celebrate the event. Then, in 1983, the observatory (reduced in size and scope) was moved to the roof of the Jonsson-Rowland Science Center to make room for construction of the Low Center for Industrial Innovation.
