Lowell Observatory has been recognized by Goodrich for accomplishing the "first light" milestone for the Discovery Channel Telescope (DCT). The development of major aspects in this advanced telescope system such as the prime focus instrument and the primary and secondary mirror assembly was supported by Goodrich's ISR Systems business.
In astronomy, ‘first light’ is using the telescope to capture an astronomical image for the first time after it has been created. The DCT’s "first light" was accomplished in May 2012.
The DCT has a 170-in aperture, analogous to the 1994-launched Goodrich’s SOAR Telescope based in Chile. The DCT is the fifth largest telescope in the US., constructed by Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona. Lowell astronomers will deploy this telescope for conducting further research fundamental aspects of the universe.
"Making of the DCT" film documentary will be broadcasted by the Discovery Channel during this fall. Goodrich is delighted to provide sponsor support to the DCT First Light Gala being hosted in Flagstaff on July 21 and anticipates scientific contributions as an outcome of this flagship research telescope.
As a Fortune 500 company, Goodrich is an international supplier of systems and services to the defense and aerospace industries. The company has one of the most strategically classified product lines in the industry and serves to be a global customer platform with significant manufacturing and service facilities across the globe.
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