Expert: Paul Wagner - 9/16/2005

Question
Dear

I was reading a book called "Astrophysical Techniques" when I came across this:

"It is well-known phenomenon to astronomers that the best observing conditions at any site occur immediately prior to the final decision to place a telescope there!
Thus not all sites have fulfilled their expectations."

Do you know of any examples where this occurred?

Cheers
Leila

Answer
Dear Leila:

Sorry I didn't answer sooner--I was in Italy.  But yes, there are any number of observing sites that have deteriorated over time.  The author of your quote is being a bit hyperbolic, but the great observatories in California, Mt. Wilson, Mt. Palomar, and Mt. Hamilton, have all been seriously worsened by light pollution...and the ones in Arizona are fighting the same battle.

Paul Wagner