Telescope Operations Specialist

Sara is a Telescope Operations Specialist at Sunspot, responsible for the daily operation of the Sunspot Solar Telescope and its instruments. She ensures the monitoring of data streams, system performance, and observing efficiency. She also assists with the design and implementation of upgrades to the telescope's observing systems, performs regular maintenance, changes instruments, and participates in special maintenance activities.

Sara began her employment at Sunspot on May 5th, 2024, marking five months of devoted service to date. Driven by her passion for observation, she found Sunspot to be an incredible opportunity to expand her knowledge of operating a major telescope. Previously involved in exoplanet research, the opportunity to study the Sun was new, providing her with learning and growth in this specialized field.

The most exciting aspect of Sara's role at Sunspot is the daily engagement with astronomy. She says that she learns something new every single day by being an astronomer, and the most exciting part for her.

Outside of her professional commitments, Sara enjoys reading, watching movies, and playing video games. Her favorite pastime is spending time with her cat. She likes looking up at the stars in the night sky; the best part of living in the desert will always be the stars, she says.