The Isaac Newton Group of Telescopes at La Palma in the Canary Islands consists of the 4.2 metre William Herschel Telescope, the 2.5 metre Isaac Newton Telescope, and the 1.0 meter Jacobus Kapteyn Telescope. Both the Isaac Newton and Jacobus Kapteyn Telescopes began service in May 1984 and the William Herschel Telescope in August 1987.

The Isaac Newton Group of Telescopes is operated on behalf of a number of collaborating organisations: The UK Particle Physics and Astronomy Research Council, The Nederlanse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, and The Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias, who share observing time with the telescopes.

Originally sited at The Royal Observatory at Herstmonceux Castle in Sussex, The Isaac Newton Telescope was moved in 1982 and now has different mechanics, electronics and optics than it had in its earlier home. The change in latitude to 28 degrees 45 minutes has resulted in a large change of angle to the polar disc which stands almost on its edge. The disc had a segment removed to allow it to operate to a declination of -30 degrees. New encoders and drive electronics were fitted and a new computer control system was installed. The 98 inch primary mirror was replaced with a 100 inch one of much higher optical quality. The prime-focus assembly was also replaced with one operated by remote control; similarly, the Acquisition and Guidance Box at the Cassegrain focus is completely new. The telescope is housed in a new dome, the old dome was left as a landmark for shipping in the English Channel.

Next >