3 replies to this topic

[SgrB2]

Below is a continuum image of the full sun, including sunspot
numbers, taken with one of the Global Oscillation Network Group
(GONG) telescopes for the present date. Also below is the GONG
continuum image blinked with the GONG H alpha image on the
same date and at a UT near that of the above continuum image.

 

These data were taken from the Space Weather Prediction Center
(SWPC) whose products can be located here:

 

https://testbed.swpc...ts/gong-imagery

 

Cheers,
SgrB2

 

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[Matthew Ota]

When I worked at Mount Wilson Observatory, my final position was as a "data analyst" at the Mt Wilson 60 foot solar tower telescope. The position was actually more of a telescope operator job. At that time this telescope was part of the GONG network. Perhaps it still is.

I was trained by one Perry Rose, who was leaving the mountain to work at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STSI) in MD. 

This was way back in the summer of 2008. I worked under PI  Dr. Edward Rhoades.

I am glad to see that the GONG network still exists in this day and age of space-based solar telescopes.

Edited by Matthew Ota, 17 February 2025 - 06:29 AM.

[SgrB2]

Ota at 60 foot Solar Tower.jpgWhen I worked at Mount Wilson Observatory, my final position was as a "data analyst" at the Mt Wilson 60 foot solar tower telescope. The position was actually more of a telescope operator job. At that time this telescope was part of the GONG network. Perhaps it still is.

 

Here are the 6 GONG telescopes today:

https://gong2.nso.ed...figs/hAlpha.cfg

 

Cheers,

SgrB2

[Matthew Ota]

Thanks fo rall of those links. It really takes me back to old times. The 60 foot Solar tower is (was?) set up to take heliosiesmology data. A fascinating field of study. In my mind's eye, I could imagine the surface of the photosphere going up and down. Now that I am retired, I intend to resume public solar astronomy outreach with my personal equipment at local schools and museums here in the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix AZ.