Dunn Solar Telescope faces demolition in fiscal 2027
US agencies are proceeding with plans to dismantle the Dunn Solar Telescope in New Mexico during fiscal 2027 after mercury contamination. The timetable separates scaffolding and top-down removal from subsequent clearance to ground level. Preservation supporters continue to object, while officials discuss scientific artefacts, the site’s future and its shared water system.
Science··Morning
Federal agencies advance the demolition timetable
The US National Science Foundation and Forest Service are proceeding with demolition plans for the Dunn Solar Telescope at Sacramento Peak Observatory in Sunspot, New Mexico. The work falls in fiscal 2027. The timetable follows the discovery of liquid mercury inside the telescope earlier this year. The foundation says engineering and hazardous-materials contractors judged full demolition the safest and most efficient route to complete remediation.[1], [2]
Scaffolding precedes top-down removal
In the first quarter of fiscal 2027, scaffolding is to surround the telescope before its concrete structure is removed from the top down. Concrete and internal structures are scheduled to come down to ground level in the second quarter. An assessment covers lead-based paint, asbestos, mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls. The foundation is working with the New Mexico Environment Department on disposal of regulated materials.[1]
Preservation objections continue alongside site planning
Friends of Sunspot, a preservation group, wants as many buildings retained as possible. Attorney Rick St. Hilaire has filed a formal objection seeking a pause. Meanwhile, the foundation has committed up to 100,000 dollars to an interpretive exhibit or signage about the site’s science. Scientific artefact transfers are under discussion with New Mexico State University and other partners. The foundation is also discussing the water system shared with neighbouring Apache Point Observatory.[1]
