History of the Sunspot Solar Observatory
The site was selected in 1947 after World War II as “Solar Weather” interfered with radio and radar communications during the war. The premier solar observatory at the time was located near Climax, Colorado at 11,000 feet. During winter months it could not be reached, and it was frequently cloudy.
As a result, scientist Jack Evans who worked at the High Altitude Observatory in Climax along with two others was tasked with finding a new site which would be funded by the newly formed United State Air Force.
The site, which overlooks the Tularosa Basin and White Sands Missile Range, is isolated from major air pollution and enjoys many sunny days in the dry, arid climate. Consequently, it is an excellent place to observe solar flares.
SEE THE SUN!