SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 553
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas takes pleasure in
recognizing the McDonald Observatory as it prepares to celebrate
75 years of groundbreaking astronomical research; and
WHEREAS, This internationally acclaimed facility is
operated by The University of Texas at Austin; it has been
responsible for scores of significant observations and
discoveries that have profound implications for the development
of astronomy and of mankind's understanding of the universe; and
WHEREAS, Established May 5, 1939, with the dedication of
its signature 82-inch telescope, the observatory has become one
of the world's premier research sites; it is a leader in
kindergarten through 12th grade education and outreach programs
and provides students unparalleled opportunities to learn about
the astronomical wonders of the universe; and
WHEREAS, The Hobby-Eberly Telescope is one of the world's
largest telescopes and is one of many instruments used by the
observatory to chart previously unknown areas of the universe;
the Hobby-Eberly Telescope Dark Energy Experiment is slated to
begin in 2014 and will collect data on 11 million galaxies and
yield the largest map of the universe ever produced; and
WHEREAS, The observatory is also a partner in the Giant
Magellan Telescope project, which will be the next generation of
telescopes and will shed light on the origins and evolutions of
galaxies, stars, black holes, and planetary systems and will
explore the properties of dark matter and dark energy;
WHEREAS, To honor its upcoming 75th anniversary, the
McDonald Observatory has designated September 1, 2013 through
August 31, 2014, as a year of celebration and special events; in
observance of this milestone, it is indeed fitting that this
premier facility, which draws stargazers and astronomers from
around the planet, be recognized as one of the Lone Star State's
most prized resources; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd
Legislature, hereby commend the McDonald Observatory as it
approaches its 75th anniversary and extend to all associated with
the observatory sincere best wishes for a productive and
successful yearlong celebration; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
the observatory to commemorate its 75th anniversary.
Rodriguez
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President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on April 23, 2013.
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Secretary of the Senate
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Member, Texas Senate