NASA Grant Will Upgrade University of Wyoming Telescope

The University of Wyoming's Wyoming Infrared Observatory (WIRO) will be upgrading its equipment thanks to a $750,000 grant from NASA. UW reports that improvements will include installation of a backup power generator, a high-speed internet link, and the replacement of a four megapixel camera with a 16 megapixel camera which is sensitive to blue/ultraviolet light.

Faculty from the Department of Physics and Astronomy see many opportunities opening up with the upgrades on the observatory. Associate Professor Chip Kobulnicky says they'll be able to compete for more observing programs in support of NASA missions and astronomers will be able to observe from remote locations. The new camera could also allow for observation of quasars according to assistant professor Adam Myers.

WIRO houses the largest infrared-optimized telescope operated by a single university. Its location on Jelm Mountain, at 9,657 feet, is an excellent spot for infrared astronomical research because of the dry air, dark night sky and comparatively low turbulence in the air above the mountain.