Abbott Tech Students Manufacture Key Component for McCarthy Observatory’s Telescope Upgrade

Observatory plate

In a testament to the power of collaboration and education, Abbott Tech High School’s Precision Machining shop has played a pivotal role in the ambitious upgrade of the McCarthy Observatory’s telescope.

Built in 2000 to encourage science education and curiosity among students, the Observatory was still utilizing the original 16” reflecting telescope through December 2023. However, this older model had limitations and with advances in the telescope world, it was time for an upgrade.

When Bob Lambert, founding member of the McCarthy Observatory, realized they needed a custom plate to mount a new telescope, they encountered numerous obstacles.

“No machine shop was willing to take on the project due to its complexity and size,” said Bob. “That’s when we took a long shot and turned to Abbott Tech.”

The over 100 lb., 2-foot diameter plate needed to be precision-engineered to match the specifications of the new telescope hardware, requiring intricate machining and attention to detail.

Jim Mills and Steve Bova, Abbott Tech’s Precision Machining program instructors, were interested in challenging the students and took on the job.

“Nothing happens without this part,” said Jim. “It was challenging because we don’t have a machine big enough to put it on and run. We couldn’t do it all at once so had to rotate and rotate and rotate.”

Precision Machining instructor, Steve Bova, showing Observatory representatives the Master Cam toolpath he created to machine the part.

“It was a project that demanded expertise and skill,” Bob said. “We were very excited that kids were going to be challenged to do something that we weren’t sure could be done. That’s exactly what we do with space exploration.”

This project not only provided a valuable learning experience for the students but also showcased the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and community organizations.

“The cooperation we got from the school was something,” Bob recalled. “They had to do a lot of thinking. This was totally new territory for them. But the key is they weren’t doing it because it was easy, they were doing it because it was hard.”

As the project nears completion, anticipation is building for the unveiling of the upgraded telescope at the McCarthy Observatory.

“The students involved in this project will never forget it and can brag about their work for years to come,” Bob stated.

For more information about the McCarthy Observatory and its upcoming upgrades, visit mccarthyobservatory.org.