University of Utah One Step Closer to High Altitude Southern Utah Astronomical Observatory

The Willard L. Eccles Foundation donated $600,000 so the University of Utah can build a 32-inch, research-class, optical telescope in southern Utah. The project is part of an effort to establish a full-fledged astronomy program at the university and perhaps to create a high-altitude observatory that will attract other new telescopes to the state. "We’re thrilled to be involved in basic research such as searching for the answers to why we are here, how we got to where we are and what’s going on with the universe," says Stephen Eccles Denkers, the foundation’s executive director. "We’re very excited about that." The robotic reflecting telescope . which can be operated by remote control and programmed to make observations on its own . will be used not only for research and education, but to involve the public in star-gazing parties, astronomy camps and even dedicated observing time for high school, middle schools and community groups. See the University of Utah press release for more information.