Wilcox Solar Observatory, A synoptic solar telescope located on the Stanford University campus
The Wilcox Solar Observatory is a small white tower located in the foothills south of Stanford University, equipped with a specialized 33 cm telescope for observing the sun. The facility uses a Littrow spectrograph instrument to measure the magnetic field on the sun's surface by analyzing specific wavelengths of light.
The facility began operations in May 1975 with a focus on observing the sun's magnetic field from its inception. It was later renamed to honor John M. Wilcox, a solar scientist whose discoveries laid the foundation for modern solar magnetism research.
The facility is named after John M. Wilcox, a solar scientist whose work shaped our understanding of solar magnetism. This quiet research site represents how scientific curiosity drives communities to study the sun and share knowledge with the world.
The site is located in a quiet area of the foothills where light pollution is minimal and researchers can work without interruption. Keep in mind this is an active research facility not designed as a tourist destination.
Many hikers exploring the hills scarcely notice the small white tower, yet it has quietly collected vital data for global solar research for decades. This unassuming presence allows scientists to work peacefully while sharing findings with researchers around the world.
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