image: The CHARA Array is set to unveil the cosmos in sharper focus, capturing stars across the visible and near-infrared spectrum like never before.
Credit: Courtesy: Georgia State University
ATLANTA — A new $1.39 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) will upgrade Georgia State University’s CHARA Array, giving it the ability to observe stars across the full visible and near-infrared spectrum.
The funding from the NSF’s Major Research Instrumentation Program will equip the Center for High Angular Resolution Astronomy (CHARA) Array with state-of-the-art optics, controllers and a sensitive tracking detector, allowing simultaneous observations across visible and near-infrared wavelengths. The advancement will allow researchers and students from around the world to explore the universe — from local star systems to distant galaxies — in unprecedented detail.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see what’s possible when curiosity meets cutting-edge technology,” said Array Director Gail Schaefer. “We are committed to delivering a world-class experience for astronomers exploring the cosmos and this upgrade gives our scientists a powerful new way to image stars in different wavelengths at the same time.”
What Is the Array and How Does It Work?
The CHARA Array is a powerful telescope system used to study stars and other objects in space in incredible detail. It’s made up of six separate telescopes that work together as one giant telescope. This setup allows scientists to see extremely fine detail.
The telescopes, spread across a large area on Mount Wilson in California, combine their light using a technique called interferometry. It’s as if six eyes are all looking at the same object, and those views are merged to form one crystal-clear image.
Operated by Georgia State University, CHARA is like a super-precise cosmic zoom lens that helps astronomers get a closer, clearer look at the universe.
What’s New?
With the upgraded instrumentation expected to come online in 2028, experts expect a fresh surge of new discoveries. From exploring stellar nurseries to mapping the fabric of the universe, the upgraded array will remain a cornerstone of Georgia State’s scientific infrastructure for years to come.
“The CHARA Array hosts state-of-the-art cameras built by partners at the University of Michigan, the University of Exeter (UK) and the Université de la Côte d’Azur (France), but we had difficulties using them together,” explained Doug Gies, Regents' Professor of Physics and Astronomy and director of CHARA. “With this new NSF award, we will soon have the means to use them simultaneously across the color spectrum. With these new capabilities, CHARA will be able to explore the universe with unprecedented clarity, inspiring new discoveries and a new generation of astronomers.”
Georgia State Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Nicolle Parsons-Pollard shared her pride in the progress of the university’s astronomy program and its commitment to supporting world-class research.
“This is outstanding news and a significant achievement for both CHARA and Georgia State University,” she said. “The enhanced ability to observe stars across the full spectrum of visible and near-infrared light marks a remarkable advancement, firmly positioning Georgia State at the forefront of astronomical research.”
The CHARA Array is funded by the National Science Foundation. Institutional support for the CHARA Array is provided from Georgia State’s College of Arts & Sciences and the Office of the Provost.
For more information about Georgia State University research and its impact, visit research.gsu.edu. For more information about the CHARA Array, visit the CHARA Array website.