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XB: Stevenson Telescope drawings, 1972 - 1983

 Sub-Series
Reference Code: GBR/0180/RGO 101/1/XB

Scope and Contents

A set of technical drawings of the Steavenson Telescope (spelled ‘Stevenson’ on the drawings). These were originally held in two rolls labelled 'XB Stevenson Telescope' and include drawings of sheet sizes V, W, X, Y and Z, V being the largest.

The Steavenson Telescope was named after its original owner, W.H. Steavenson, who donated it to the RGO in c.1960/61 for use at the Cape Observatory. It returned to the RGO Herstmonceux in 1972 and was set up in Dome C where various modifications were made. Originally a Cassegrain type reflector, it was modified in the RGO workshops by installing a flat, tilting tertiary mirror to obtain two foci and instruments bases on the tube. The original polar axis mount with fork was adapted to the new latitude and the fork was lengthened to accept the passage of larger instruments.

In 1980, with renovation and testing now complete, it was sent to the Sierra Nevada Observatory at Loma de Dílar, Spain where it was used from 1981-1989. It is currently installed in the Science Park of the city of Granada.

Dates

  • Creation: 1972 - 1983

Creator

Conditions Governing Access

From the Management Group:

Unless restrictions apply, the collection is open for consultation by researchers using the Manuscripts Reading Room at Cambridge University Library. For further details on conditions governing access please contact mss@lib.cam.ac.uk. Information about opening hours and obtaining a Cambridge University Library reader's ticket is available from the Library's website (www.lib.cam.ac.uk).

Extent

176 sheet(s) (in 2 tubes and 1 box)