Telescope....

**robousy** · 03-28-2009 12:55 AM

I'd like to build an observatory and a telescope. A really really big one. It's going to cost about $300k-$500k.

I'm thinking of forming a non-profit, and myself and 2 colleagues run the joint. We all 3 have PhD's in physics so have good qualifications to do this and one has been teaching astronomy at university level for 6 years. I could also get some additional Phd's on the board of directors very easily to provide advice - a university prof. for example who has been teaching astronomy for 25 years.

The telescope would be amazing...really spectacular, computer controlled, hooked up to the net, and able to do real professional research due to its size. I'd really like to do research in extra-solar planets.

I was thinking we'd also have open nights too, invite school children for tours.

Am I dreaming? How could I raise the money to do this?

**ZingerIntl** · 03-28-2009 02:56 AM

Man... Really Cool and Interesting ideas. Your writing seems genuine and as long as you can prove the credentials you all seem qualified. As long as you are not seeking money here you are ok. It would be interesting to hear about your progression. Good Luck

Is it going to be in Hawaii as well?

**robousy** · 03-28-2009 03:16 AM

Originally Posted by ZingerIntl

Man... Really Cool and Interesting ideas. Your writing seems genuine and as long as you can prove the credentials you all seem qualified. As long as you are not seeking money here you are ok. It would be interesting to hear about your progression. Good Luck

Is it going to be in Hawaii as well?

Thanks! Yea, I have a bunch of ideas, and most revolve around out-there physics projects. Yup, we are genuine. I have a list of articles I've worked on here: http://www.richardobousy.com/articles.htm

I'm not looking for money here.

Just advice on where to go to find people who might fund this. They'd get 24/7 access obviously and enjoy being a part of a cool research program.

Well, I live in Texas so somewhere here. Hawaii has near perfect conditions due to the altitude and lack of light pollution, but you can still do some pretty great observing in Texas away from the cities.

**MTaylor** · 03-28-2009 05:05 AM

I think you should consider adding diversity to your team rather than more PHDs. The PHDs will be great for actually running the telescope, but thats about it. I would suggest that you start by finding an MBA, an CGA, a lawyer, and a public relations expert. It's the difference between strengthening your weaknesses and reinforcing your strengths.