National Solar Observatory

NSO's mission is to advance knowledge of the Sun, both as an astronomical object and as the dominant external influence on Earth, by providing forefront observational opportunities to the research community. A major new NSO initiative is the 4-meter Advanced Technology Solar Telescope (ATST) that will begin construction in the near future. NSO currently operates long-term observing networks at the Kitt Peak National Observatory near Tucson, and the Sacramento Peak Observatory in New Mexico. NSO plans to ramp down operations at the older telescopes, some dating to the 1950s. The changes, coupled with the development of the ATST, require that NSO consolidate its headquarters in one site.