Abstract
The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO), formerly The Royal Observatory Cape of Good Hope, celebrated 200 years of existence as an astronomical observatory on Oct 20, 2020 and is the oldest scientific institution in South Africa. The Royal Observatory Cape of Good Hope was founded on Oct 20, 1820, and for much of its history, it was the major contributor to positional astronomy in the southern hemisphere. The SAAO is not only known for its rich history and various contributions to science, its buildings are also of special architectural significance. Consequently, on Dec 21, 2018, the South African Heritage Resources Agency officially declared the SAAO a National Heritage Site and on Oct 20, 2020 it was formally unveiled. Here, Cunnama discusses a brief history of SAAO and presents the various events arranged to celebrate the bicentenary of the Observatory.
Highlights
The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO), formerly The Royal Observatory Cape of Good Hope, celebrated 200 years of existence as an astronomical observatory on 20 October 2020 and is the oldest scientific institution in South Africa
At the time of its foundation, the Royal Observatory was formally controlled by the British Admiralty and was initially intended for the improvement of navigation
In 1971, a decision was taken to amalgamate the major facilities for optical astronomical research into one body, which became known as the South African Astronomical Observatory
Summary
At the time of its foundation, the Royal Observatory was formally controlled by the British Admiralty and was initially intended for the improvement of navigation. The Royal Observatory found its forte in the late 19th century by leading the way in astronomical photography and the cataloguing of stars The South African astronomy community began considering the idea of acquiring a new telescope towards the late 1980s and had initially envisaged a rather modest 4-metre instrument. These dreams were far surpassed when, in 1998, South Africa became the leading partner in the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), which was to become the largest optical and infrared telescope in the southern hemisphere. The theme of our event is ‘Beyond 200 Years of Astronomy’, and we see this future full of opportunity, inspiration, and pride in the excellence of decidedly African astronomy at the forefront of a cutting-edge global pursuit
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