Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory. Mt. Hopkins Department Search this
Extent:
2.5 cu. ft. (5 document boxes)
Type:
Collection descriptions
Archival materials
Manuscripts
Black-and-white photographs
Color transparencies
Place:
Santa Rita Mountains (Ariz.)
Date:
1966-1970
Descriptive Entry:
These records document the early history of the Mt. Hopkins Observatory and concern site development, the construction of buildings, the development of astronomical
instruments for use at Mt. Hopkins, and projects conducted by SAO and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration at the Observatory. The records include a contracts
file, 1966-1970; a projects file, 1967-1970; administrative records, 1966-1970; and photographs and color slides of the Observatory, 1969.
Historical Note:
In October 1965, Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) Director Fred L. Whipple visited the southwestern United States for the purpose of choosing a site for
a new branch observatory. The location selected was Mt. Hopkins in the Santa Rita Mountains of Arizona. Development of the site began in 1966, and the observatory was officially
opened on October 23, 1968. Research activities at Mt. Hopkins included optical and laser satellite tracking for geodetic and geophysical studies, spectroscopic observation
of both stellar and planetary bodies, and gamma-ray astronomy.
During 1965 and 1966, the Mt. Hopkins Observatory project was administered by the Office of the Director. Jack A. Coffey served as the first Project Administrator from
December 1965 to December 1966 (except during March and April 1966 when Raymond Watts served in the position). In 1967, the newly created Programs Management Office assumed
responsibility for Mt. Hopkins, with John J. Burke as chief administrative officer. In 1969, the Mt. Hopkins Department was established, with Ronald R. LaCount as Manager.
Charles Tougas was appointed Field Manager of the Mt. Hopkins site in 1966. He was assisted by Werner Kirchhoff who served as Special Technical Advisor.
