NASA Orbital Debris Observatory, Astronomical observatory in Lincoln National Forest, United States.
NASA Orbital Debris Observatory is a research station in the Lincoln National Forest of New Mexico dedicated to tracking satellites and rocket fragments orbiting Earth using specialized telescopes and detection equipment. The facility sits at high elevation where dark skies and thin atmosphere create ideal conditions for spotting and measuring space debris.
The station was established in the 1990s and operated an innovative 3-meter liquid mercury telescope from 1995 to 2002, marking a breakthrough in orbital debris research. This cutting-edge equipment made it one of the world's largest instruments of its kind and helped scientists understand space debris threats early on.
The observatory strengthened scientific understanding of orbital debris risks through collaboration with universities and research institutions across the United States.
The site sits above 2,700 meters (8,800 feet) elevation near Cloudcroft with minimal light pollution and clear skies that favor observation work. Visitors should prepare for cooler temperatures and thinner air typical of high-altitude mountain locations.
The liquid mercury telescope was an engineering marvel because the spinning metal surface naturally formed a perfect parabolic mirror. This unusual approach allowed engineers to build a massive instrument far more cheaply than traditional glass-mirror designs would permit.
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