New Generation Optical Telescope Systems

Abstract

During the past decade, astronomy has made great strides in understanding the nature of the stars, the synthesis of the chemical elements, and the structure of our galaxy, while significant progress has been made in understanding star forma­ tion. The discoveries of quasistellar sources, violent explosions of galaxies, energetic processes in galactic nuclei, and shreds of matter between galaxies have opened up the exploration of intergalactic space. The structure of the uni­ verse , the formation and evolution of galaxies, and the nature of the intergalactic medium present exciting challenges for the future. Within our galaxy, the dis­ covery of pulsars and their optical identification convince us that we have finally observed neutron stars, hypothesized some forty years ago, and have opened up the entire field of study of compact objects. X-ray observations have revealed new energy sources within our galaxy and infrared observations promise to tell us more about the initial stages of star formation in our own and other galaxies. To place these and other new discoveries within the framework of traditional astronomy demands original thinking. Moreover, it is vital that these investiga­ tions be extended because astronomical knowledge is not constrained by the boundaries imposed by a particular discipline nor by the limitations of anyone area of technology. It is the unification of diverse observations that unravels the mysteries of the universe, and the large body of knowledge that has been ac­ cumulated in the optical region over the history of astronomy provides the frame­ work upon which progress is built. These investigations have taxed the limits of currently available optical telescopes and have required great ingenuity on the part of observers to extract important data from the instruments available. Sky brightness and poor resolu­ tion due to atmospheric seeing limit many investigations, while others are simply photon limited. The most exciting problems in astronomy today cry out for more and larger telescopes . It is the intent of this review to describe some of the new developments in optical instrumentation that are currently receiving attention. In one sense it is a discussion of various approaches to permit optical astronomy to catch up: to catch up in light-gathering power, in resolution. and in efficiency.