The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Announces Decision to Close Sunspot Solar Observatory
In the article here, NSF has announced the closure of the Sunspot Solar Observatory. It will remain closed to the public indefinitely.
Following the January 5, 2026 discovery of liquid mercury on the platform inside the Dunn Solar Telescope, and the subsequent indentification of a leak originating from the main bearing, the U.S. National Science Foundation has determined that the most prudent course of action is to completely drain and remove the mercury from the site as soon as possible. This action, while necessary for safety and environmental reasons, will render the DST inoperable. At this time, and through the remediation of the DST, the visitor's center will remain closed to the public for safety purposes.
In order to ensure the safety of all workers, personnel and the public, Sunspot Observatory (including the Dunn Solar Telescope, the Visitor Center, the surrounding areas, and local hiking trails) is CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC for the foreseeable future. We apologize for any inconvenience.
On the morning of January 5th, two NMSU staff members inside the Dunn Solar Telescope (DST) observed liquid mercury on the platform. Proper safety protocols were implemented immediately to ensure the safety of both on-site personnel. The DST, the surrounding observatory building, and visitor center will remain closed until further notice while appropriate remediation measures are implemented. There is no immediate concern for public or environmental safety, and the proper authorities have been notified.
Sunspot Solar Observatory Consortium
From 1976 until 2016, the National Solar Observatory (NSO) operated the Observatory on Sacramento Peak for the National Science Foundation. It served as a premier solar research facility available to scientists in the United States and abroad. In 2016, when the opportunity to build a university-based consortium led by New Mexico State University became available, the university assumed control of operations at the Observatory. Members of the consortium have access to the cutting-edge Dunn Solar Telescope (DST), the data it has collected from the sun, and the open optical bench system-- which can be used to build and test innovative instruments. The goal of the Sunspot Solar Observatory consortium is to provide institutions with access to one of the world's leading solar facilities, to serve as a training ground for the next generation of solar researchers, and to ultimately enhance our understanding of the Sun. See who's part of the consortium below.
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Interested in joining the consortium? Please email Dr. Jason Jackiewicz at jasonj@nmsu.edu for more information. |
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