What was the Arecibo Observatory?

The Arecibo Observatory was a powerful radio telescope in Puerto Rico, famous for its massive 305-meter diameter spherical reflector dish, used for crucial research in atmospheric science, radio astronomy, and planetary radar.

When did the Arecibo Observatory collapse?

The main telescope platform of the Arecibo Observatory tragically collapsed on December 1, 2020, after multiple cable failures compromised its structural integrity.

What were some key discoveries made at Arecibo?

Arecibo discovered the first binary pulsar (leading to a Nobel Prize), produced the first radar maps of Venus, studied near-Earth asteroids, and was instrumental in detecting the first exoplanet.

Is there a plan to rebuild the Arecibo Observatory?

While there are no current plans to rebuild the large 305-meter radio telescope, efforts are underway to establish a new educational and scientific center at the site, potentially featuring smaller scientific instruments.