Vainu Bappu telescope

Abstract

The article describes the project of planning, designing and constructing a large optical telescope in India. The historical background covering observational efforts since the middle of the nineteenth century to the post-Indpendence developments has been brought out. Following a Scientific Committee's recommendations, set up after the Second World War, preparation for developments of observational astronomy had started; the tortuous cpurse of planning, preparation and development of technical abilities etc have been described. Various aspects of the project, beginning from site selection, establishment of the optical laboratory, liaison with different laboratories and manufacturing firms for design and fabrication of the telescope mount and the critical control system have been covered. A brief description on the telescope parameters and its auxiliary equipment is given. Some details of the operational problems encountered during fabrication and installation of the telescope and a critical review of its performance are discussed.