Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory
The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is a premier research institute that is part of the Smithsonian Institution. Founded in 1890 by Samuel Pierpont Langley, it focuses on astrophysical studies and is a part of the larger Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian located in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Historical Background
The SAO was originally established as a research bureau under the Smithsonian Institution and started operating on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.. Recognizing the growing scope of space exploration and astrophysical research, SAO moved its headquarters to Cambridge in 1955, aligning closely with the Harvard College Observatory (HCO) and the Harvard University Department of Astronomy.
In 1973, the Smithsonian Institution and Harvard University formalized their collaboration, creating the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian, thus coordinating the associated research activities.
Research Divisions
The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, in collaboration with the Harvard College Observatory, supports six primary research divisions:
- Atomic and Molecular Physics: This division focuses on the fundamental aspects of atomic and molecular interactions in astrophysical contexts.
- High Energy Astrophysics: Researchers study phenomena involving high-energy particles and radiation, often using the Chandra X-ray Observatory and other space-based instruments.
- Optical and Infrared Astronomy: This includes the study of celestial phenomena in optical and infrared wavelengths, often utilizing ground-based telescopes.
- Radio and Geoastronomy: This division explores the universe at radio wavelengths and includes aspects of geophysics.
- Solar, Stellar, and Planetary Sciences: Studies in this division cover the sun, stars, and planets, providing insights into the broader cosmos.
- Theoretical Astrophysics: This division involves the development of theoretical models to explain astronomical phenomena.
Achievements and Contributions
The SAO has made significant contributions to various fields in astronomy and astrophysics. One of its key achievements is the creation of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory Star Catalog, an important astrometric star catalogue.
Additionally, the SAO operates the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory, which is a critical facility for observational astronomy.
The Minor Planet Center, headquartered at the SAO, serves as the official worldwide organization for the collection and dissemination of data on minor planets, including asteroids and comets.
The observatory has also played a pivotal role in the development and operation of space-based observatories, such as the Orbiting Astronomical Observatory 2.
Notable Individuals
Notable figures associated with the SAO include Charles Greeley Abbot, who served as the director before becoming the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Alexey Vikhlinin is another prominent astrophysicist at the SAO involved in the design of space-based X-ray observatories.