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ARECIBO OBSERVATORY: MEDIA RESOURCES
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ARECIBO OBSERVATORY
Stewarded by U.S. National Science Foundation since the 1970s, Arecibo
Observatory has contributed to scientific discoveries including the
demonstration of gravitational waves from a binary pulsar and the first
discovery of an extrasolar planet. In 2020, Arecibo Observatory's 305-meter
telescope collapsed. Information about the collapse and NSF's efforts to address
the damage and restore other parts of the observatory can be found on this page.
Reporters with questions should contact NSF's Media Affairs team at
media@nsf.gov or 703-292-7090.
LATEST UPDATES
05/15/2024
NSF ANNOUNCES PILOT PHASE AND ANTICIPATED OPENING DATE OF ARECIBO C3 AT THE SITE
OF THE NSF ARECIBO OBSERVATORY HISTORIC DISTRICT IN PUERTO RICO
As excitement builds for the grand opening of the new U.S. National Science
Foundation Arecibo Center for Culturally Relevant and Inclusive Science
Education, Computational Skills, and Community Engagement (NSF Arecibo C3),
anticipated in November 2024, NSF is pleased to announce the start of a pilot
phase this summer, engaging small groups of local students and educators to test
the center's activities and exhibits.
"We are thrilled to announce the pilot phase of NSF Arecibo C3, marking a
significant step toward realizing NSF's vision of a dynamic science center open
to all, fostering curiosity, innovation and exploration," said NSF Director
Sethuraman Panchanathan. "As we prepare for the grand opening later this fall,
we look forward to engaging communities from across Puerto Rico and welcoming
everyone to a center that will spark a passion for STEM and inspire future
generations of scientists and researchers."
Continue reading on NSF news
03/27/2024
The U.S. National Science Foundation is excited by the progress underway as it
prepares to open an educational center at the site of the NSF Arecibo
Observatory Historic District in Puerto Rico. The new Arecibo Center for
Culturally Relevant and Inclusive Science Education, Computational Skills, and
Community Engagement (Arecibo C3) will continue the Arecibo Observatory's legacy
of leadership within Puerto Rico and the STEM community through education,
outreach and workforce development. Despite minor delays due to site
preparation, the Arecibo C3 team is working diligently, developing and
implementing plans and preparing spaces for a suite of new STEM programs and
initiatives to ensure a successful launch and a valuable experience for all
participants. Starting in June 2024, the Arecibo C3 team will initiate a "pilot
phase," engaging small groups of local students and educators to test the
activities and exhibits at the center. The insights garnered from this pilot
phase will help in shaping the future of the center as the anticipated fall 2024
inaugural celebration draws near.
With respect to the scientific infrastructure at the site of the NSF Arecibo
Observatory Historic District, some areas are being reconfigured for Arecibo C3
use as laboratory space. In addition, NSF has facilitated the transfer of three
optical instruments to the island of Culebra: a spectrometer and two
photometers, along with accompanying equipment and trailers needed to operate
these instruments. These instruments will be used for atmospheric research under
an active NSF grant. Other scientific instruments and equipment are being stored
safely while NSF determines the best potential usage. The Arecibo C3 team has
access to the instrumentation remaining at the site and may choose to
incorporate it in some science, technology, engineering and mathematics
education activities. NSF will consider future support of instrumentation use in
science operations through existing grants and future merit-reviewed proposals.
10/18/23
The U.S. National Science Foundation has collaborated with NASA to study
next-generation deep space radar needs, releasing an interagency report by the
Aerospace Corporation. The report examines whether a coordinated development of
future deep space radar facilities between NASA, NSF and other U.S. government
agencies and stakeholders should be further explored to address agency needs for
planetary defense, planetary science, atmospheric science, ionospheric science,
geospace science and cislunar space situational awareness (SSA).
The report identified significant gaps between today's facilities and agency
needs and explored the potential for planned facilities to meet those needs. It
developed a range of high-level strategies that meet some, but not all,
priorities by considering several factors, including radar frequency bands,
sensitivities, and the fraction of facility time needed. The report is not
indicative of any government commitments regarding future deep space radar.
Planetary defense and cislunar SSA were selected as the two core mission areas
that would drive further technical analyses, based on stakeholder input at
several technical interchange meetings.
The study is available at: nasa.gov.
The purpose of this report was not to address the future use of the Arecibo
Observatory site. NSF will continue to consider proposals for use of the site
through the agency's merit review process. On Sept. 25, 2023, NSF announced over
$5 million in funding over a five year period to establish the Arecibo Center
for Culturally Relevant and Inclusive Science Education, Computational Skills,
and Community Engagement.
Historic and technical data from the legacy Arecibo webpage are now available:
https://naic.nrao.edu/.
https://naic.nrao.edu/arecibo/ (Note: This site is currently under migration and
includes legacy Arecibo content).
09/25/23
Today, the U.S. National Science Foundation announced an investment of over $5
million over five-years for a collaborative partnership between three higher
education institutions and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory to establish a new
multidisciplinary, world-class educational center at the Arecibo Observatory
site in Puerto Rico. The new center, the Arecibo Center for Culturally Relevant
and Inclusive Science Education, Computational Skills, and Community Engagement
(Arecibo C3), will serve as a catalyst for increased and inclusive engagement in
a broad range of science, technology, engineering and mathematics disciplines,
cutting-edge research and workforce development initiatives by students,
teachers, researchers, local communities and the public within and outside of
Puerto Rico.
"The new educational center builds on the great scientific, educational and
cultural legacy of the Arecibo Observatory and is closely aligned with NSF's
goal to create STEM opportunities everywhere," said James L. Moore III, NSF
assistant director for STEM Education. "The center aims to create new
opportunities for STEM education, exploration, discovery, engagement and
participation of students, scientists and researchers in various STEM
disciplines ranging from astronomy and radio science to biological, computer and
natural sciences in Puerto Rico and beyond."
Funded under the Arecibo Center for STEM Education and Research (ACSER)
solicitation, this new educational center is consistent with guidance provided
in the "CHIPS and Science Act of 2022," which "encourages the National Science
Foundation, in consultation with other federal agencies, to explore
opportunities for strengthening and expanding the role of the Arecibo
Observatory in Puerto Rico through education, outreach and diversity programs,
and future research capabilities and technology at the site."
Four institutions will work together to establish Arecibo C3 and will
collaborate with Ciencia Puerto Rico and STEM Program Evaluation, Assessment,
and Research. The center's outreach plan will include dynamic collaborations
with members of the Puerto Rico STEM community, the University of Puerto Rico
system, private universities and STEM academic organizations to continue
engaging faculty, K-12 students and teachers, families and the general public.
The four awardees are:
* Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.
* University of Puerto Rico-Río Piedras.
* Universidad del Sagrado Corazón.
* University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
The new center is expected to open in early 2024 and will continue Arecibo
Observatory's legacy of leadership within Puerto Rico and the STEM community
through education, outreach and workforce development. Arecibo C3 will include a
research laboratory and a hands-on, interactive science center open to the
public. It will honor the observatory's rich contributions to astronomy and
extend its focus to interdisciplinary, fundamental and applied research that
links astronomy data with touch, sound and vision. The center's research will
also integrate the life sciences, computer and data sciences, and ultimately the
breadth of all areas of STEM education.
"We, humans, are the ones who link all the sciences of the universe. Honoring
the legacy of the Arecibo Observatory, NSF has entrusted Puerto Rico with a
timely initiative centered on community, culture, education, all existing
sciences and those yet to emerge," said Arecibo C3 Executive Director Wanda
Díaz-Merced. "Through Arecibo C3, the scientific and harmonious vitality of the
Puertorriqueños as maximum seekers of scientific truth will lead the path of
science, focusing on the people and the maximum expression of the human
intellect that resides in the constantly evolving life of the entire community."
Arecibo C3 will prioritize community engagement, particularly for
underrepresented groups, in its STEM education and outreach programs. It will
expand opportunities for student research and workforce development, foster
professional development, and support collaborative research between faculty,
K-12 teachers and students in Puerto Rico and the U.S. mainland. In addition,
Arecibo C3 will include a public science center that will focus on scientific
themes, research and innovations through exhibitions, educational programming,
science talks, films and enrichment activities for children, families, educators
and the general public. A highlight of the science center will be an Arecibo
Observatory Legacy Exhibition.
These collaborative partnerships will form the cornerstones of Arecibo C3 and
will further NSF's overall strategy to develop the diverse and globally engaged
workforce necessary to ensure that the nation remains a global leader in science
and engineering research and innovation.
For more information about NSF programs, visit nsf.gov. For updates on Arecibo
C3, a new website is currently under development and will be accessible at
www.areciboc3.org.
10/13/22
The U.S. National Science Foundation issued a solicitation Oct. 13 for a new
multidisciplinary, world-class educational center at the Arecibo Observatory in
Puerto Rico that aims to serve as a hub for STEM education and outreach.
The center would expand upon existing education and outreach opportunities
currently in place at the Arecibo Observatory site, while also implementing new
STEM programs and initiatives. The new center is expected to open in 2023.
The scientific community has expressed broad support for an expanded educational
facility. Specifically, the 2020 Decadal Survey for Astronomy and Astrophysics,
or Astro2020, recognized that the observatory has, over the course of its nearly
60-year history, become a highly regarded part of the community for many of
Puerto Rico's citizens, serving as a source of pride and local economic benefit
while also providing access to training and employment for many in the
community. Astro2020 called out support for its continuation as an important
nexus for education, community, and developing a diversified STEM workforce.
The goals of the center would be to:
* Promote STEM education, learning, and teaching.
* Support fundamental and applied STEM and STEM education research.
* Broaden participation in STEM.
* Build and leverage existing and new collaborations and partnerships.
The center would have four primary functions aligned to its goals:
* Engage the public in STEM through education and outreach activities.
* Develop and implement a research and workforce development program.
* Support participation of individuals from underrepresented groups in STEM
education and research.
* Cultivate and build authentic partnerships within and outside of Puerto Rico.
The solicitation calls for proposals to manage the education, STEM research, and
outreach aspects of the center. Resources available on site include: a learning
center, the Ángel Ramos Science and Visitor's center, exhibition space,
laboratory space, auditorium, cafeteria, office space, and dormitories. A
third-party contractor will be responsible for maintenance of the site resources
listed above, in addition to grounds maintenance.
NSF program directors will work with awardees that have ongoing NSF-funded
activities at the Arecibo Observatory to ensure continuity of programs. The
solicitation does not include rebuilding the 305-meter telescope or operational
support for current scientific infrastructure, such as the 12-meter radio
telescope or Lidar facility. Teams seeking to utilize existing scientific
infrastructure or proposing for new projects can submit proposals that are
complementary to the scope of the new center. All proposals will go through the
standard NSF merit review process. Interested parties are advised to contact a
NSF program director in their program area to discuss the proposal prior to
submission.
This new educational center opportunity is consistent with guidance provided in
the "CHIPS and Science Act". The act "encourages the National Science
Foundation, in consultation with other Federal agencies, to explore
opportunities for strengthening and expanding the role of the Arecibo
Observatory in Puerto Rico through education, outreach, and diversity programs,
and future research capabilities and technology at the site."
The solicitation is available.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
La Fundación Nacional de Ciencias (NSF, por sus siglas en inglés) emitió una
solicitud el 13 de octubre invitando propuestas para la creación de un nuevo
centro educativo multidisciplinario de clase mundial en el Observatorio de
Arecibo en Puerto Rico, el cual tendría como objetivo servir como un centro para
la educación y divulgación de las disciplinas STEM (ciencia, tecnología,
ingeniería y matemáticas).
El centro tendría como objetivo ampliar las oportunidades de educación ya
existentes en el Observatorio de Arecibo, y al mismo tiempo implementaría nuevos
programas e iniciativas de STEM. El nuevo centro abriría sus puertas en el 2023.
La comunidad científica ha expresado un amplio apoyo a la creación de un centro
educativo en dicha localidad. La Encuesta Decenal de Astronomía y Astrofísica de
2020, o Astro2020, reconoció que el observatorio, a lo largo de sus casi 60 años
de historia, se ha convertido en una parte muy querida de la comunidad de Puerto
Rico, sirviendo como fuente de orgullo y beneficio económico local, al mismo
tiempo que brinda empleo y capacitación para muchos en la comunidad. Astro2020
expresó apoyo para la creación de este centro como un nexo importante para la
educación, la comunidad y el desarrollo de una fuerza laboral de STEM
diversificada.
Los objetivos del centro serían:
* Promover la educación, el aprendizaje y la enseñanza de las disciplinas STEM.
* Fomentar investigaciones fundamentales y aplicadas en STEM, e investigaciones
sobre la educación de las disciplinas STEM.
* Ampliar la participación en STEM.
* Crear nuevas y/o fortalecer colaboraciones y asociaciones ya existentes.
El centro tendría cuatro funciones principales alineadas con sus objetivos:
* Involucrar al público en STEM a través de actividades educativas y de
divulgación.
* Desarrollar e implementar un programa de investigación y desarrollo de la
fuerza laboral.
* Fomentar la participación de grupos subrepresentados en la educación y la
investigación de STEM.
* Cultivar y construir alianzas auténticas dentro y fuera de Puerto Rico.
La solicitud invita propuestas para la gestión y manejo de los aspectos de
educación, investigación de STEM y divulgación del centro. Los recursos ya
disponibles en el sitio incluyen: un centro de aprendizaje, el Centro de
Ciencias y Visitantes Ángel Ramos, espacio para exposiciones, espacio para
laboratorio, auditorio, cafetería, espacio para oficinas y dormitorios. Un
contratista externo será responsable del mantenimiento de estos recursos además
del mantenimiento de los terrenos.
NSF trabajará con los adjudicatarios que tienen actividades en curso financiadas
por la NSF en el Observatorio de Arecibo para asegurar la continuidad de dichos
programas. Cabe aclarar que la solicitud de propuestas no incluye la
reconstrucción del telescopio de 305 metros ni el apoyo operativo para la
infraestructura científica actual, como el radiotelescopio de 12 metros o la
instalación Lidar. Los equipos y/o investigadores que deseen utilizar la
infraestructura científica existente o proponer nuevos proyectos pueden
presentar propuestas que sean complementarias a las funciones del nuevo centro
educativo. Todas las propuestas serán evaluadas por el proceso de revisión de
méritos de la NSF. Se les recomienda a las partes interesadas que se comuniquen
con un director de programa de la NSF en su área de interés para analizar la
propuesta antes de enviarla.
Esta nueva oportunidad del centro educativo coincide con las instrucciones
proporcionada por la "Ley CHIPS y Ciencia". La ley "alienta a la Fundación
Nacional de Ciencias, en consulta con otras agencias federales, a explorar
oportunidades para fortalecer y expandir la función del Observatorio de Arecibo
en Puerto Rico a través de programas de educación, divulgación y diversidad, y
futuras capacidades de investigación y tecnología en el sitio".
La solicitud está disponible en.
08/11/22
The Thornton Tomasetti Forensic Investigation into the collapse of the 305-meter
Telescope at the Arecibo Observatory is now available
* Arecibo Telescope Collapse Forensic Investigation report
* Arecibo Telescope Collapse Forensic Investigation report appendices
04/11/22
The Arecibo Observatory Salvage Survey Committee (AOSSC), chartered by the
University of Central Florida (UCF) and the U.S. National Science Foundation
(NSF) has posted their report following the conclusion of the salvage
activities.
* The Arecibo Observatory Survey Salvage Committee Report
03/07/22
Visitor's Center Reopening
The Ángel Ramos Foundation Science and Visitors Center at the Arecibo
Observatory will reopen to the public on March 10. Visitors are welcomed
Wednesdays through Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. but must make
reservations online.
A new outdoor exhibit was added with artifacts recovered from the telescope and
its platform. In addition, visitors will be able to access the observation deck
and see where the telescope once stood. The rest of the AO facility remains
closed to the public.
A short public ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. inside the Science and Visitors
Center Auditorium. During the ceremony, some of the science investigations
carried out at AO and the many educational opportunities available will be
shared.
Visitors are welcome, but they must reserve a date and time to visit through the
online store. Spaces are limited so an appointment is essential to secure your
space. Guests will not be allowed to enter without an appointment. Visitors must
also comply with the following guidelines:
* Reservations must be made in advance at https://www.naic.edu/shop
* Everyone 5 years-old or older must bring and wear a mask at all times
* Guests must show proof of vaccination when they arrive
* Use hand sanitizer
* Maintain physical distance during the visit
The temperature of each person will be taken at the entrance. Anyone with a
temperature of 100.4 F (38 C) or higher will not be able to enter, nor will
anyone in their party. Anyone without a mask will not be allowed inside and no
masks will be provided.
The University of Central Florida manages the NSF facility under a cooperative
agreement with Universidad Ana G. Méndez and Yang Enterprises, Inc.
Observatory Status Cleanup is complete. Scientists and engineers on site
continue to work on existing instrumentation, such as the 12-meter telescope,
the optical facility and the lidar facility, and they are continuing to analyze
and publish the large amount of data that already existed at the time of the
305m telescope collapse. In addition to the studies conducted on the single
socket where the first failure occurred, there are two independent broader
studies being carried out now. We expect to learn of their findings later this
year.
12/01/21
Fact Sheet: Arecibo Observatory Update
Arecibo Imagery
The latest images are available for download
11/17/21
The U.S. National Science Foundation, University of Central Florida, Arecibo
Observatory, and a team of contractors have nearly completed the emergency
cleanup activities at the Observatory.
Correction: The November 2021 report, entitled "Update on Arecibo Observatory
Emergency Cleanup" contained an error with regard to the estimated number of
damaged panels that had been removed from the reflector. The estimate has been
corrected in this updated report:
* Update on Arecibo Observatory Emergency Cleanup (November 2021, Updated Dec
2021)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
La Fundación Nacional de las Ciencias de los EE. UU., la Universidad de la
Florida Central, el Observatorio de Arecibo, y un equipo de contratistas ya han
completado casi todas las actividades de limpieza de emergencia en el
Observatorio. Por favor vea el siguiente informe para una actualización de las
medidas de protección ambiental y la conservación histórica:
Corrección: El informe de noviembre de 2021, titulado "Actualización del
Observatorio de Arecibo Limpieza de Emergencia" contenía un error en referencia
al número estimado de paneles dañados que fueron removidos del reflector. Dicho
estimado ha sido corregido en este informe actualizado:
* Actualización del Observatorio de Arecibo Limpieza de Emergencia (Noviembre
2021, Actualizado en dic 2021)
06/28/21
The U.S. National Science Foundation, University of Central Florida, Arecibo
Observatory, and a team of contractors continue to perform emergency cleanup
activities at the Observatory. Please see the following report for an update on
environmental protection measures and historic preservation:
* Update on Arecibo Observatory Emergency Cleanup (June 2021)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
La Fundación Nacional de las Ciencias, la Universidad de la Florida Central, el
Observatorio de Arecibo, y un equipo de contratistas continúan llevando a cabo
actividades de limpieza en el Observatorio. Por favor vea los siguientes
informes para una actualización de las medidas de protección ambiental y la
conservación histórica:
* Actualización del Observatorio de Arecibo Limpieza de Emergencia (Junio 2021)
05/13/21
UPDATE: On May 11, 2021, at approximately 9:00 a.m. one of the trucks used to
collect debris from the 305-meter telescope at the Arecibo Observatory made
contact with power lines and internet cables while en route to the Observatory.
The incident interrupted power and internet service for hours. While the trucks
being used to transport the debris related to the December collapse of the
305-meter telescope at the Arecibo Observatory are well within the legal limits
for height, there are several areas along the transportation route that present
challenges for clearing power lines and internet cables. These areas are located
along the secondary roads between the town of Arecibo and the Arecibo
Observatory. The Arecibo Observatory team is actively evaluating this situation
and will take the immediate step of placing spotters en route to attempt to
avoid future contact with power lines and internet cables during the remainder
of the debris removal effort, which is nearing the end.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
El 11 de mayo de 2021, aproximadamente a las 9:00 a.m., uno de los camiones que
transportaba los escombros del Observatorio de Arecibo hizo contacto con las
líneas eléctricas y cables de Internet mientras se dirigía al Observatorio. El
incidente interrumpió los servicios de electricidad y Internet durante varias
horas. Los camiones que se utilizan para transportar los escombros están dentro
de los límites legales de altura, sin embargo, hay varias áreas a lo largo de la
ruta de transporte que presentan desafíos para despejar las líneas eléctricas y
los cables de Internet. Estas áreas están ubicadas a lo largo de las rutas
secundarias entre el centro del pueblo de Arecibo y el Observatorio El equipo
del Observatorio de Arecibo está evaluando activamente esta situación y colocará
personal en las rutas, encargados de observar, para intentar evitar el contacto
futuro con líneas elóectricas y cables de Internet durante el resto del proceso
de remoción de escombros, el cual está llegando a su fin.
04/26/21
The Transportation Plan has been updated to reflect a change to the truck route.
See here for a map of the revised route.
04/16/21
The Transportation Plan has been updated to reflect a minor change to the route
on the highway side; there is no change to the route through the residential
areas.
El plan de transporte ha sido actualizado para reflejar un cambio en la ruta
correspondiente a la autopista; no se hizo ningún cambio a la ruta en las zonas
residenciales.
03/31/21
Registration is now available for online attendance of a public meeting on
anticipated truck traffic related to debris removal from the Arecibo
Observatory. The meeting, hosted by The National Science Foundation (NSF),
University of Central Florida (UCF) and the Arecibo Observatory (AO) will be
held April 5 at 6:00 p.m., AST.
Use this link to register in advance for the webinar. If you have any issues,
please contact Arecibo-feedback@nsf.gov. After registering, you will receive a
confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Q&A: Arecibo Observatory Debris Transportation
On March 15, 2020, crews began transporting a small number of loads carrying
debris from the Arecibo Observatory to a recycling facility. The number of loads
carrying debris will increase during the first week of April and continue
through June 2021, or shortly thereafter. All debris is from the December 2020
collapse of its 305-meter telescope. The removal will advance the ongoing
cleanup activities as the National Science Foundation (NSF), which owns the
Observatory, and the University of Central Florida (UCF), which operates it,
work to restore remaining capabilities to operations.
Information about the debris removal, including the full transportation plan is
available on NSF’s website. Members of the community with questions about the
transportation plan can contact Arecibo-feedback@nsf.gov. Members of the media
should contact NSF at media@nsf.gov or 703-292-7090.
Why is this material being removed? Initial removal of materials from the
Observatory will create staging areas for additional cleanup work at the site.
Later removal of materials will be for long-term cleanup; disposal will include
recycling for as much of the material as possible. Material potentially useful
for future scientific operations will be retained and samples important for the
ongoing forensic investigation to more fully understand the cause of the
collapse will be kept on-site. A salvage survey committee, which includes
representatives from Arecibo Observatory, the Smithsonian Institution and
universities in Puerto Rico, is screening debris to identify objects for
potential scientific reuse, cultural or historic value, or possible display at
the site or other museums. See information about historic preservation at the
Observatory for more information.
How and when will it be removed? The materials will be moved via hauling trucks,
40-60 yard trailers, all of which have integrated tarps to cover each load.
Transportation of materials and work vehicles can be expected Mondays-Saturdays
between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. with peak traffic between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. We
anticipate hauling debris and returning to Arecibo each day. It is estimated
work for this part of the project will continue through June or shortly
thereafter.
What kinds of materials will be removed? Materials removed from the site will
include soil as well as scrap metal and concrete, mostly from the telescope’s
instrument platform and its supporting structure.
Will this create traffic? Hauling of materials is not expected to create any
significant increase in local traffic. Transportation is expected to involve 3-4
trucks making approximately two round-trips per day, departing the Observatory
intermittently, not large convoys (maximum four trucks).
Will this involve road closures or detours? No. The transportation plan involves
only a small number of trucks per day operating in normal traffic.
Could this damage roads? This work is not expected to have any negative impact.
NSF and UCF are coordinating with local officials to address any potential
issues.
How noisy will this be? This work is not expected to generate significant noise
beyond the sound of 3-4 trucks making approximately two round-trips per day, as
the loading of debris will take place on the Arecibo Observatory site.
What do I do if I see debris in the road, on my property or elsewhere? Call or
text 787-246-4200 for assistance and the debris will be retrieved. Do not
attempt to remove debris yourself, as it may be heavy or have sharp edges.
Where is the debris going? The material will be hauled to recycling facilities
and landfills in Puerto Rico.
Is any of this material being transported hazardous? No. The materials have been
tested and identified as non-hazardous waste. Soil that was affected by a
release of hydraulic fluid during the collapse of the dish has already been
excavated and will be removed from the Observatory through a separate process.
Workers will continue to test all materials identified for disposal.
Why can’t this work be done at night? For the safety of our drivers and
community members living alongside the steep road to Arecibo, it is necessary to
do the work in the daytime. The curvy, steep and narrow road poses an additional
hazard at night.
Why remove this material? Could it be sold or archived? The materials being
removed are mostly pieces of the 305-meter telescope’s suspended platform. As
such, much of the debris is bulky and jagged. NSF and UCF are screening debris
during the sorting process in order to retain materials that could be of use in
science operations and any objects of potential historical importance. See
information about historic preservation at the Observatoryfor additional
information on the salvage process.
Is Arecibo Observatory open? The Observatory is only open to approved operations
and scientific staff, and to the workers performing cleanup, environmental and
historical assessment duties. This debris transportation process is part of the
effort to fully reopen the Observatory, including the Visitor Center, to the
public as soon as possible.
Q&A: Transporte de Escombros del Observatorio de Arecibo
El 15 de marzo de 2020, los equipos comenzaron a transportar una pequeña
cantidad de cargas con escombros desde el Observatorio de Arecibo a una
facilidad de reciclaje. La cantidad de cargas que transportan escombros
aumentará durante la primera semana de abril y continuará hasta junio de 2021, o
poco después. Todos los escombros son del colapso de diciembre de 2020 de su
telescopio de 305 metros. La remoción avanzará las actividades de limpieza en
curso, ya que la Fundación Nacional de las Ciencias (NSF), propietaria del
Observatorio, y la Universidad de la Florida Central (UCF), que lo opera,
trabajan para restaurar las capacidades restantes y poder operarlas.
La información sobre la remoción de los escombros, incluyendo el plan de
transportación completo, está disponible en la página de internet de NSF. Los
miembros de la comunidad que tengan preguntas sobre el plan de transportación
pueden comunicarse a través de Arecibo-feedback@nsf.gov. Los miembros de los
medios de comunicación deben comunicarse con NSF a través de media@nsf.gov ó al
703-292-7090.
¿Por qué se está removiendo este material? La remoción inicial de materiales del
Observatorio creará áreas de preparación para trabajos de limpieza adicionales
en el sitio. La remoción posterior de materiales será para limpieza a largo
plazo; la disposición incluirá el reciclaje de la mayor cantidad posible de
material. Se conservará el material potencialmente útil para futuras operaciones
científicas y se mantendrán en el lugar muestras importantes para la
investigación forense en curso para comprender mejor la causa del colapso. Un
comité de inspección de salvamento, que incluye a representantes del
Observatorio de Arecibo, la Institución Smithsonian y universidades en Puerto
Rico, está revisando los escombros para identificar objetos de potencial
científico para su posible reutilización, y artículos de valor cultural o
histórico que se conservarán para su posible exhibición en el sitio u otros
museos. Vea la información sobre la preservación histórica en el Observatorio
para más información.
¿Cómo y cuándo se eliminará? Los materiales se moverán a través de camiones de
transporte, remolques de 40 a 60 yardas, todos los cuales tienen lonas
integradas para cubrir cada carga. Se puede esperar el transporte de materiales
y vehículos de trabajo de lunes a sábado entre las 7 a.m. y las 4 p.m. con
tráfico pico entre las 9 a.m. y las 3 p.m. Anticipamos transportar escombros y
regresar a Arecibo todos los días. Se estima que el trabajo para esta parte del
proyecto continuará hasta junio o poco después.
¿Qué tipo de materiales se removerán? Los materiales removidos del sitio
incluirán suelo, chatarra y hormigón, principalmente de la plataforma de
instrumentos del telescopio y su estructura de soporte.
¿Esto creará tráfico? No se espera que el transporte de materiales genere un
aumento significativo en el tráfico local. Se espera que el transporte involucre
de 3 a 4 camiones haciendo aproximadamente dos viajes de ida y vuelta por día,
saliendo del Observatorio de manera intermitente, no como grupos grandes (máximo
cuatro camiones).
¿Esto implicará cierres de carreteras o desvíos? No. El plan de transporte
involucra solo una pequeña cantidad de camiones por día operando en el tráfico
normal.
¿Podría esto dañar las carreteras? No se espera que este trabajo tenga ningún
impacto negativo. NSF y UCF se están coordinando con los funcionarios locales
para atender los problemas potenciales.
¿Qué tan ruidoso será esto? No se espera que este trabajo genere un ruido
significativo más allá del sonido de 3-4 camiones que realizaran aproximadamente
dos viajes de ida y vuelta por día, ya que la carga de escombros se llevará a
cabo en el sitio del Observatorio de Arecibo.
¿Qué hago si veo escombros en la carretera, en mi propiedad o en otro lugar?
Llame o envíe un mensaje de texto al 787-246-4200 para obtener ayuda y se
recuperarán los escombros. No intente quitar los escombros usted mismo, ya que
pueden ser pesados o tener bordes afilados.
¿A dónde van los escombros? El material será transportado a facilidades de
reciclaje y vertederos en Puerto Rico.
¿Alguno de este material transportado es peligroso? No. Los materiales han sido
probados e identificados como desperdicios no peligrosos. El suelo que fue
afectado por una liberación de fluido hidráulico durante el colapso del plato ha
sido excavado y será retirado del Observatorio en cargas separadas. Los
trabajadores continuarán muestreando todos los materiales identificados para su
disposición.
¿Por qué no se puede hacer este trabajo de noche? Para la seguridad de nuestros
conductores y miembros de la comunidad que viven junto a la empinada carretera
hacia Arecibo, es necesario hacer el trabajo durante el día. La carretera con
curvas, empinada y estrecha representa un peligro adicional durante la noche.
¿Por qué remover este material? ¿Podría venderse o archivarse? Los materiales
que se están removiendo son en su mayoría piezas de la plataforma suspendida del
telescopio de 305 metros. Como tal, muchos de los escombros son voluminosos e
irregulares. NSF y UCF están examinando los escombros durante el proceso de
clasificación para retener materiales que podrían ser de utilidad en operaciones
científicas y cualquier objeto de posible importancia histórica. Vea la
información sobre la preservación histórica en el Observatorio para obtener
información adicional sobre el proceso de salvamento.
¿Está abierto el Observatorio de Arecibo? El Observatorio solo está abierto al
personal de operaciones y científico autorizado, así como a los trabajadores que
realizan tareas de limpieza, evaluación ambiental e histórica. Este proceso de
transporte de escombros es parte del esfuerzo para reabrir el Observatorio,
incluido el Centro de Visitantes, al público lo antes posible.
03/25/21
Engineering firms operating at the site of the Arecibo Observatory’s collapsed
305-meter telescope have produced a transportation plan for the removal of
debris. The plan will be discussed at an April 5 public meeting, accessible
in-person or virtually. See below for details. The plan's executive summary is
also available in Spanish.
The National Science Foundation (NSF), University of Central Florida (UCF) and
the Arecibo Observatory (AO) will be hosting a public meeting to inform the
local community of anticipated truck traffic related to debris removal from the
Arecibo Observatory. Interested members of the public are invited to attend the
meeting.
The public meeting will be held April 5 at 6:00 p.m., AST, both virtually and
in-person.
Location: Colegio de Ingenieros y Agrimensores de Puerto Rico, Capítulo de
Arecibo
Paseo Los Olmos, Arecibo, PR 00612
The meeting will be held in both Spanish and English. COVID-19 protocols will be
followed during the in-person meeting, including temperature checks. Attendees
must wear a mask or face covering, practice six-foot social distancing at all
times, and use hand sanitizer as preventive measures.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
La Fundación Nacional de las Ciencias (NSF, por sus siglas en inglés), la
Universidad de la Florida Central (UCF, por sus siglas en inglés) y el
Observatorio de Arecibo (AO, por sus siglas en inglés) estarán llevando a cabo
una reunión pública para informar a la comunidad local sobre el tráfico de
camiones anticipado debido a la remoción de escombros del Observatorio de
Arecibo. Se invita a los miembros del público interesados a asistir a la
reunión.
La reunión pública se llevará a cabo el lunes, 5 de abril a las 6:00 PM, tanto
en persona como de manera virtual.
Lugar: o Colegio de Ingenieros y Agrimensores de Puerto Rico, Capítulo de
Arecibo
Paseo Los Olmos, Arecibo, PR 00612
La reunión se llevará a cabo en inglés y en español. Se seguirán los protocolos
de COVID-19 durante la reunión en persona, incluyendo la toma de temperatura.
Los asistentes deben llevar mascarilla o cubierta de cara, practicar 6 pies de
distanciamiento social en todo momento y utilizar desinfectante de manos como
medidas preventivas.
03/11/21
New Workshop Dear Colleague Letter
* NSF has posted a Dear Colleague Letter advising the research community of a
planned workshop focused on finding actionable and innovative ways to
support, broaden, and strengthen the radio science community across all of
Puerto Rico and to create or enhance opportunities for science and
educational and cultural activities and public outreach at the Arecibo
Observatory.
Environmental Cleanup and Historic Preservation
* Ensuring safety has continued to be NSF's top priority. This includes not
only the safety of personnel on the site, but also the safety of the
environment in the area. NSF, the University of Central Florida (UCF), and a
team of contractors that includes environmental specialists have been working
since the December 1st collapse to communicate with regulatory agencies and
to identify environmental compliance requirements, including those related to
pollution prevention, sampling and analysis, and biological resources.
* Cleanup work has included soil sampling and excavation to remove soil
impacted by hydraulic oil released during the collapse, as well as the
development and implementation of plans for the sampling and analysis of
soil, groundwater, and surface water and a Stormwater Pollution Prevention
Plan to prevent sediment and pollutants from migrating offsite. Biologists
are conducting wildlife and vegetation surveys to inform protection measures
relating to species of concern.
* NSF and UCF continue their work to address concerns about historical and
cultural preservation. NSF has been in contact with the Puerto Rico State
Historic Preservation Office (PR SHPO) and the Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation (ACHP) since the day of the collapse to consult on the
protection and preservation of historically important elements of the
structures and site. NSF will continue to provide ACHP with updates.
* Recognizing that there is interest in preserving identifiable remains of the
contributing resources of the historic district as well as scientific
equipment that could be reused, at NSF's direction, UCF has established the
Salvage Survey Committee tasked with screening the debris to identify objects
of potential scientific, cultural, or historic value to be preserved for
potential display at the site or other museums.
* More information on Environmental Cleanup can be found on NSF's Environmental
Cleanup and Historic Preservation site.
03/03/21
* NSF has provided a report to Congress, as required by the report language
accompanying the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, describing "the
causes and extent of the damage, the plan to remove debris in a safe and
environmentally sound way, the preservation of the associated AO facilities
and surrounding areas, and the process for determining whether to establish
comparable technology at the site, along with any associated cost estimates."
The investigation of the collapse and exploration of future opportunities for
Arecibo is ongoing. Read the report here.
PRESS RELEASES
* Arecibo Observatory's 305-meter telescope suffers collapse
* NSF begins planning for decommissioning of Arecibo Observatory's 305-meter
telescope due to safety concerns
ENGINEERING REPORTS
* Thornton Tomasetti recommendation for course of action at Arecibo Observatory
* WSP recommendation for future efforts at Arecibo Observatory
* WJE memorandum on Arecibo Observatory stabilization efforts
FACT SHEETS
* Arecibo Observatory Fact Sheet
MULTIMEDIA RESOURCES
* Images of the damaged 305-meter telescope site.
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