Browse Map

Explore away

Explore Map Collection

Check out our basemaps

Print a Map Plus

Generate a high-quality PDF

Field Guide

Discover local flora, fauna, geology, and more

Local Flora & Fauna

Learn the ecology of your area

Local Geology

Learn the geologic formation at your feet

Get Started or Sign In

Welcome

Continue with Apple

Already have an account? Sign In

MAP

Topo

Measure

Topo

Ecoregions

Public Lands

...

BASEMAPS

Default Weather

Temperature

Smoke

...

WEATHER

Barcroft Observatory

Observatory on White Mountain Peak Road in Inyo NF, Great Basin near Chalfant, CA

Official Website

Print Map

Generate High-Quality PDF

Get Driving Directions

Navigate Here

On the Web

On Official Website

The Barcroft Observatory small dome (now just the foundations remain) was built in the 1960's to study the moon and planets at infrared wavelengths. In 1976 the main observatory dome was built and a 62" mirror telescope installed. The telescope was part of a study to determine the best location for the soon-to-be-built Keck telescope, which was eventually sited in Hawaii. In September 2003 the UCSB astrophysics group custom designed and installed the MPOL telescope, to determine aspects of the polarization of the cosmic background radiation. The telescope was designed to be operated remotely via internet and telephone controls, and successfully ran during parts of the winter and spring, 2004. The mirror, designed to reflect at millimeter wavelengths, is clearly visible in the opening. The telescope is mounted on the upstairs level, while the ground floor is occupied by support equipment and the control system. The UCSB zenith cam looks out the window on the ground floor toward White Mountain Peak, and takes a photo every 10 minutes.The astrophysics groups also maintains a Dome weather station just outside the dome. The photo below shows the UCSB MPOL telescope in operation.

Classified As

Observatory