An Enhanced CCD System For Undergraduate Laboratory And Research In Astronomy

9352584 Ciardullo Experimental astronomy provides a unique platform for laboratory instruction. The nature of modern astronomical observations requires sophisticated technology applied at its limits. In addition, the field itself is perceived as exciting by many students. These facts have led the Pennsylvania State University's Eberly College of Science to upgrade its under- graduate facilities in astronomy by renovating its telescopes, providing new instrumentation for its laboratories, and improving the quality of its undergraduate laboratory instruction. The work will be continued by acquiring a science grade CCD system to go on an existing 24-in telescope located on the roof of Davey Lab, the home of the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics. This CCD gives undergraduate students hands-on experience in observational astronomy and helps provide them with a sense of participation in a scientific enterprise. In addition, this new CCD allows the small CCD now on the telescope to be moved to the classroom, and thus upgrades the quality of instrument labs. By providing access to the very latest astronomical instrumentation and data analysis techniques, these improvements serve to encourage students to pursue careers in science and engineering. ***