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NOAO Newsletter - US Gemini Program - June 2000 - Number 62


Gemini South Primary Mirror Arrives in Chile

USGP Staff

The primary mirror for the Gemini South telescope arrived safely in Chile in March. The mirror began its journey from the REOSC Optique outside Paris in mid-February and was shipped by sea, arriving at the Chilean port of Coquimbo in mid-March.

Early in the morning on March 15th, the mirror successfully passed through the Puclaro Dam Tunnel, the narrowest constriction on the route from the harbor, on its way to Cerro Pachón where it arrived on March 17th. The mirror now rests safe and sound within the coating chamber of the Gemini South enclosure. The mirror will see "first light" in the Gemini South telescope later this year.

Aboard the transport barge on the Seine.

Passing through the Puclaro Dam Tunnel.

On the Tololo road with Cerro Tololo in the background.


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