CfA 1.2 m Millimeter-Wave Telescope

The 1.2-meter radio telescope maps molecular clouds in the Milky Way through precise measurements of carbon monoxide emissions from its rooftop location.

Initially constructed at Columbia University in 1974, the telescope moved to the Center for Astrophysics headquarters in Cambridge during 1986.

Twenty-four doctoral dissertations emerged from research conducted with this telescope, contributing substantially to astronomical education and scientific advancement.

The telescope operates primarily between October and May, collecting data about molecular cloud formations and star-forming regions across the northern sky.

Working in tandem with its twin in Chile, this telescope has documented previously unknown spiral arms and mapped extensive portions of the Milky Way.

Diameter: 1.2 m

Part of: Harvard–Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics

Website: https://cfa.harvard.edu/mmw/mini.html

GPS coordinates: 42.38167,-71.12853

Latest update: March 13, 2025 09:27