Peter A. Strittmatter, president of the LBT Corp., said, “This is a momentous occasion for everyone involved in this ground-breaking endeavor to take space exploration to the next level. The LBT will provide us with an unparalleled view of our solar system and allow astronomers to gather light from billions of light years away. We are extremely excited by the possibilities presented by the LBT and relish the opportunity to welcome the world to Southern Arizona to showcase this telescope.”
Jim Slagle, assistant project director of the LBT said, “Given the day-to-day challenges faced by the crew and other members of our team, this is truly a remarkable accomplishment for the University and its partners. Since we started construction on LBT eight years ago, a number of individuals from a variety of diverse backgrounds in Graham County, Ariz., Southern Arizona, Ohio, Italy and Germany came together and worked hard to make this a reality. This triumph belongs to all of them and is a tribute to what can be done when people come together.”
For decades astronomers have gravitated to Southern Arizona for its clear, dark skies, arid climate and accessible high altitude. The region now has the world’s highest concentration of observatories pointed at the universe. Arizona’s leadership role in astronomy is further sustained by the existence of advanced educational opportunities, diversity of research associated with large optics, extensive observatory operations and, most importantly, the dynamic intellectual and economic interaction among each of these components