In July, the Green Bank Telescope suffered damage to the prime focus boom of the telescope’s feed arm, a moveable part of the structure that works in conjunction with its collection of receivers.
The boom’s internal ball screw mechanism, which provides its movement, became jammed. Telescope mechanics worked to clear the jam and stow the boom safely in a retracted position. Until the ball joint is repaired or replaced the boom cannot be moved. Mechanics are awaiting updates from an outside manufacturer who originally produced these parts.
Gregorian receivers (L, C, X, Ku, Ka, Mustang, and Argus) are now available for observations, along with KFPA (at a later date). At this time, there can be no receiver changes, and the Prime Focus is unavailable. Observatory staff are exploring options to reschedule observations interrupted by this repair.
If you have an observation on the GBT for Semester 2022B you will have been contacted about this. If you have any further questions, please reach out to your project friend.