Larry McBee
McDonald Observatory Davis Mountains
N 30 68.084', W 103 01.502';
Elevation 6602.3’ (at HET)
Content:
Dan Lester, Ph.D. is an Infrared Research Scientist with the Department of Astronomy at The University of Texas at Austin. Author of over 200 professional articles on astrophysics and infrared astronomy, Dr. “Dan” is currently conducting “IR” research at the MacDonald Observatory near Ft. Davis, TX, using the 2.7m telescope and a variety of spectrographic equipment that he has designed and constructed specifically for this purpose.
During the course of our 4-day astronomy field study at the MacDonald Observatory I had the unique opportunity to work first-hand with Dr. “Dan” and other astronomers at this world-class facility. I was very pleased that Dr. Lester could take a few minutes to talk to me about his specialty in infrared technology and the qualities that make for a great astronomer.
Reflection:
As a result of the training and personal insights shared with us by Dr. Lester and the rest of the staff at the MacDonald Observatory, I have increased my knowledge and understanding of astronomy and more importantly, my ability to apply that knowledge and share it with my students and fellow teachers, by a factor of ten or more. This has been an altogether extraordinary experience.
Media Resources:
Dan Lester, a McDonald Observatory
astronomer.
Thursday, June 8, 2006
