Dr. Dieter Hartmann, professor of physics and astronomy at Clemson University, sees the importance of astronomy as a deeper understanding of our universe. “It provides an ultimate connection between humans and the universe,” Hartmann said.
While all of SARA’s accomplishments are notable, Hartmann said students are its greatest accomplishment. “The engagement of students has always been a main component of SARA, so we are very proud of them,” Hartmann said. The telescopes provide students who are interested in astronomy a chance to further their curiosity and knowledge of the universe. To the students with access, it is an opportunity to use a research-class telescope. It’s not huge, but it’s their first experience to go from a college level to a professional level of research, so it’s an exciting experience for them.”
Hartmann said gamma-ray bursts are one of his main research interests. “For a few hours of the day, these bursts can be observed with the SARA telescopes,” Hartmann said, further noting the many benefits SARA telescopes give to professional researchers and students alike.
Despite the steady interest and growth, SARA still faces challenges, including budget cuts. “The costs of doing business at the national observatories continues to increase because the federal agencies that support them have been cutting funding and closing facilities,” Oswalt said. This leaves the burden of finances on the facilities that are funded by the universities.
Oswalt said it takes the financial support of five universities to operate the telescopes each year. This support provides about 20 hours/day of coverage in the northern hemisphere and approximately 15 hours’ coverage in the south. Although the telescopes are small, interest in SARA continues to increase.
“Interest continues to be strong, even in this day of 10-m to 30-m telescopes,” Oswalt said. “When the time comes to develop a new site, we will be seeking new members.”
Hartmann said schools with an interest in joining SARA should contact them. “They will be invited to write a proposal to join the group,” he said. “They tell us why they would be a good partner in the enterprise.”
To learn more about SARA and all of its accomplishments and goals, you can visit their website at saraobservatory.org. Until then, keep looking to the stars.