Solution

Smithsonian Institution, Multiple Mirror Telescope

Mount Hopkins, AZ

Service: Structural Design
Market: Science & Defense
Keywords: Construction Administration, Dome, Foundation, Mechanical/Electrical System, Spaceframe/Shell Structure, Telescope

Client

Harvard-Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

Completion

1995

With the advent of economical large spun cast mirrors, the Smithsonian Institution and the University of Arizona wished to convert the Multiple Mirror Telescope (MMT) to a telescope with a single 6.5 m dia. mirror to retain its position as one of the world’s most powerful instruments.  SGH developed the drawings and specifications for this modification.