The Discovery Channel Telescope (DCT) is Lowell Observatory’s newest project to design and construct a powerful, 4.2-meter telescope 40 miles southeast of Flagstaff, Arizona at a site location known as Happy Jack.

Currently under development in partnership with Discovery Communications, Inc., the DCT will significantly advance Lowell’s scientific research capabilities while providing opportunities for real-time global broadcasting and educational programming about astronomy and science.

Construction of the DCT facility began in September 2005 and is expected to conclude in early 2007.  Fabrication of the 4.3m primary mirror blank was completed by Corning, Inc. in September 2005.  The blank was delivered to University of Arizona, College of Optical Sciences in Tucson at the end of August 2006 for final figuring and polishing, a two- to three-year process.
 

Unique to the DCT’s optical configuration is the ability to switch from an ultra wide-field (prime focus) imaging and surveying mode to a significantly longer focal length mode optimized for spectroscopy, infrared imaging, and other applications. When configured for prime focus imaging, the DCT, in a single exposure, will allow astronomers to survey an area of the sky equal to the size of 16 full moons, which greatly exceeds the capabilities of existing telescopes of its class. In the longer focal length mode, the DCT will allow astronomers to zoom in on selected objects for detailed observation and subsequent analysis.

With an expected completion date in 2009, the DCT will be a powerful, versatile tool for accelerating progress on a number of high-priority research areas including the search for Near Earth Objects (NEOs), extrasolar planets, and exploration of the newly discovered Kuiper Belt. It will also expand opportunities for public outreach and education in the exciting world of science and technology.

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