The launch of the Dr. William Hrudey Observatory at the University College of the Cayman Islands campus was held in George Town on 21 February.
Among those present for the occasion were Cayman Islands Premier McKeeva Bush, UCCI President Roy Bodden, Education Minister Rolston Anglin and other prominent members of the community including Dr. William Hrudey himself.
The telescope, which was developed by Mr. Hrudey and donated to the university will serve the entire Cayman Islands academia in their interests in astrology and science. It was made possible as a result of the assistance of entities from the private sector, which were all presented special plaques in recognition of their contributions.
It is expected students and the general public will be able to use the facility. Daytime and evening school hours will also be provided, in addition to a course in amateur telescope building, with the Cayman Astronomical Society having access to the observatory and providing its expertise.
Other planned exercises to take place in the observatory include a special teacher training workshop under the auspices of the International Astronomical Union and Annual Science Weeks. These will include guest speakers at the observatory and public schools.
Premier Bush said, “There can be no cap on the accomplishments in this area,” adding that, “The sky is literally the limit.”
“Our students have the means now to join a whole new world club and have another vista to prove their mettle.
“… I am particularly delighted that our pre-eminent educational institution, which caters to thousands of our citizens is taking another step in promoting science education,” Mr. Bush said.
Mr. Bodden lauded the efforts of the private sector in making the observatory a reality and the teamwork between native Caymanians and residents, which made it possible.
“We have to be open, tolerant and inclusive of people who choose to come and live among us and make contributions. We are going to turn out a different generation of people at this institution,” he said, adding the graduates from UCCI would be made to understand and appreciate the special opportunity presented by those who bring fresh insight and different experiences.
With regard to the telescope, Mr. Rhudy said it is a sophisticated piece of equipment, which is computerised and features technology not available 10 years ago. He said though it was not the largest in the region, it was the most sophisticated.
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