The 24-inch TIE Telescope

This telescope is used by the Telescopes in Education (TIE) Program, a project designed to bring research-grade astronomy to schools, amateur clubs, etc. by way of a remotely-controlled telescope and easy-to-use software for data acquisition.

Built and used by CalTech, the telescope was part of an experiment during the Apollo program of the 1960's. This project tested the Moon's surface to determine whether or not it was solid enough (as opposed to soft moon dust) for spacecraft to land on. The telescope has since been re-commissioned by the Mount Wilson Institute to advance hands-on education in astronomy.

Near the site of the 24-inch telescope are several concrete piers on which an experiment designed by Albert Michelson to measure the speed of light once stood.

The Tour continues down the ridge to the end of the road at which point the ground falls away to precipices on three sides. This is the site of the ``Monastery''.

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