an astrophysical research site...

The maintenance staff of MGIO boast a very broad range of talents. The crew, Shane Olson, Doug Roden, Armando Alvarado, Brian Fields, Larry Hutchins, Brian Waggoner and Josh Marble are the "jacks of all trades."  From plumbing to diesel mechanics; heavy equipment operation to telecommunications system maintenance; road maintenance to telescope maintenance; even design and fabrication of intricate assemblies; and finally -- complete re-builds on equipment in addition to maintaining a 24 hour on-call duty system.  All team members are trained in "First Responders" life saving techniques. These men do it all...

"The Water Wagon," a Kenworth tractor, provides enhanced capabilities for the operation of the remote observatory site. This semi-tractor and 3,150 gallon tanker make the haul of potable water to the "top" a bit more tolerable.

Preventative maintenance (in systems such as power generation, fire suppression, utility plant operation and heavy equipment) is what keeps the site operating at an extraordinarily high level of reliability. Road maintenance (especially in the winter season) requires a high level of expertise.

Each maintenance technician is required to participate in the 24 hour on-call  "Duty System". The "Duty Person" insures the smooth operation of all self contained systems at the remote observatory site.  The crew also maintain and repair the heavy equipment, buildings, utility systems and grounds.

The winter of 2010 was a difficult one -- we received almost 20 feet of total snowfall and it was a challenging situation; but, the MGIO crew prevailed.  After 5 days the road was opened to observatory traffic...

Last modified: January 20, 2012