Every night, astronomers use a new generation of giant telescopes
at observatories around the world to study phenomena at the
forefront of science. By focusing on the history of the Gemini
Observatory--twin 8-meter telescopes located on mountain peaks in
Hawaii and Chile--"Giant Telescopes" tells the story behind the
planning and construction of modern scientific tools, offering a
detailed view of the technological and political transformation of
astronomy in the postwar era.
Drawing on interviews with participants and archival documents,
W. Patrick McCray describes the ambitions and machinations of
prominent astronomers, engineers, funding patrons, and politicians
in their effort to construct a modern facility for cutting-edge
science--and to establish a model for international cooperation in
the coming era of "megascience." His account details the
technological, institutional, cultural, and financial challenges
that scientists faced while planning and building a new generation
of giant telescopes. Besides exploring how and why scientists
embraced the promise and potential of new technologies, he
considers how these new tools affected what it means to be an
astronomer. McCray's book should interest anyone who desires a
deeper understanding of the science, technology, and politics
behind finding our place in the universe.
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