The Whipple Observatory 10 m gamma-ray telescope, 1997–2006

Abstract

Details are presented of the Whipple Observatory’s 10 m atmospheric Cherenkov telescope and camera, as it evolved during the period 1997 until 2006. The design of the telescope and camera’s optical and electronic systems is discussed together with a detailed description of the four-stage GRANITE (Gamma-RAy New Imaging TElescope) upgrade program, undertaken during the same time period. The objective of the upgrade was to improve the telescope’s sensitivity for the detection of very-high-energy gamma-rays. Results from the program are provided and are briefly discussed in the context of the design of VERITAS.

Publication
In Astroparticle Physics
John Kildea
John Kildea
Associate Professor (tenured) of Medical Physics