ARO 12m Radio Telescope, Radio telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory, Arizona, United States
The ARO 12-meter Radio Telescope stands at an elevation of 1914 meters, featuring a primary reflector that captures radio signals from celestial objects.
Built in 1967 as a 36-foot structure by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, the telescope underwent reconstruction in 1984 to reach its current 12-meter size.
The University of Arizona manages this scientific facility through the Steward Observatory, providing research opportunities for astronomers and graduate students.
The telescope operates continuously for ten months annually, collecting data about molecular formations in space through specialized radio wave detection equipment.
In 2013, the telescope received an upgrade with ESO's ALMA prototype antenna, improving surface precision for enhanced astronomical observations of molecular structures.
Location: Arizona
Inception: 1967
Elevation above the sea: 1,914 m
Diameter: 12 m
Part of: Kitt Peak National Observatory
Website: http://aro.as.arizona.edu/12m_docs/12_meter_description.htm
GPS coordinates: 31.95330,-111.61500
Latest update: March 13, 2025 09:27
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