Short Wave The Arecibo Telescope Is Damaged — And That's A Big Deal
Aug 28, 2020
Edgard Rivera-Valentín, a planetary scientist at the Lunar and Planetary Institute, joins to discuss the recent damage to the iconic Arecibo Telescope. He highlights the emotional and scientific stakes of the incident, emphasizing the telescope's unique capabilities in radar communication and its pivotal role in studying Mars. The conversation also touches on Arecibo's cultural significance in Puerto Rico and the ongoing financial challenges it faces, reminding us of its importance as a bridge between scientific discovery and public interest.
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Early Inspiration
- Edgard Rivera-Valentin's first word was "luna," meaning moon in Spanish.
- Growing up near the Arecibo telescope inspired their career in astronomy.
Arecibo's Versatility
- Arecibo is a versatile radio telescope capable of both sending and receiving light.
- This makes it uniquely suited for tracking asteroids and planetary defense.
Cultural Impact
- Arecibo sent a message into space in the 1970s and has appeared in pop culture, including an Avengers cartoon.
- This demonstrates its role in inspiring awe and wonder about the universe.