The 0.9m telescope is no longer scheduled as a McDonald Observatory research telescope. Currently, observing time on the telescope is used for public educational programs. The programs consist of star parties for attendees of our Elder Hostel and Teacher Education Workshops. Occasionally, the telescope is used for special VIP viewing sessions. Observers who would have asked for the 0.9m telescope in the past are urged to request the 2.1m telescope or the 0.8m telescope instead, as appropriate to the nature of their programs.
Memo to Observers
See:
Observing Support: 0.9 m Telescope
Instruments
Cassegrain f/13.5 (Dall-Kirkham) focus
Optical
| Primary Mirror | |
| Diameter | 91.8 cm (36.1") |
| Focal length | 3.18 m (125") |
| F-ratio | 3.5 |
| Cassegrain f/13..5 (Dall-Kirkham) focus | |
| Focal length | 12.27 m (483") |
| F-ratio | 13.42 |
| Field angle | 20 arcmin |
| Plate scale | 16.8 arcsec/mm |
Mechanical
| Primary Mirror | |
| Weight | 203 kg (448 lbs) |
| Thickness | 15.5 cm (6.1") |
| Telescope Tube | |
| Diameter | 1.19 m (47") |
| Length | 3.11 m (10'2") |
| Dome | |
| Diameter | 6.1 m (20') |
Historical
| Construction | |
| Completed | 1956 |
| Contractor | |
| Telescope | Boller and Chivens Division, the Perkin-Elmer Co. |
| Dome | McDonald Staff |
