The CHARA Array

这项拨款为长基线、多望远镜可见光干涉阵列的详细设计和建造提供了部分支持。CHARA阵列将由5个1米口径的望远镜组成一个y形阵列，包含在一个直径400米的圆内。这种配置将在可见光谱区域提供高分辨率干涉测量，极限分辨率为0.2毫微秒。该设施将位于新墨西哥州阿尔伯克基以西130公里的Mesa Negra。主要的科学项目将通过在可见光波段进行干涉测量分析来研究单星和多星的基本天体物理学。该阵列将适用于当代天文学所有领域的问题，特别是如果它后来配备了自适应光学和激光信标。CHARA阵列将满足巴切尔委员会1990年代地面干涉测量的关键目标，并为国家提供一个独特而强大的新天文设施。* * *

ABSTRACT MCALISTER, Harold AST-9414449 This grant provides partial support for the detailed design and construction of a long-baseline, multiple-telescope interferometric array operating at visible wavelengths. The CHARA Array will consist of five 1-m aperture telescopes in a Y-shaped array contained within a 400 m diameter circle. This configuration will provide high resolution interferometry in the visible spectral region with a limiting resolution of 0.2 milliarsec. The facility will be located on Mesa Negra, 130 km west of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The primary scientific programs will be directed at the fundamental astrophysics of single and multiple stars through interferometric analyses at visible wavelengths. The Array will be applicable to problems in all areas of contemporary astronomy, especially if it is later equipped with adaptive optics and laser beacons. The CHARA Array will meet a critical goal of the Bachall Committee for ground based interferometry for the 1990's and provide a unique and powerful new astronomical facility for the nation. * * *