Principal Investigator
Dr. Desireé Cotto Figueroa — University of Puerto Rico at Humacao

Co-Principal Investigator
Dr. Alex J. Camacho Martínez — University of Puerto Rico at Humacao

Project Overview

This CARSE-supported project establishes a radio astronomy educational and research training component at the UPR Humacao Astronomical Observatory through the installation and operation of a 3.7-meter fully motorized radio telescope. The initiative provides undergraduate students with hands-on training in radio astronomy techniques, including telescope operation, radio observations, and data analysis. Students learn to apply interdisciplinary knowledge from physics, astronomy, electronics, electromagnetism, antennas, and signal processing to study astrophysical sources that emit radio waves. The project also strengthens astronomy education in Puerto Rico following the collapse of the main telescope at the Arecibo Observatory and helps expand opportunities for training in radio sciences at local universities.

Relevance to CARSE

The project aligns with CARSE’s Education, Outreach, and Workforce Development initiatives by expanding hands-on training in radio sciences and supporting the development of the next generation of scientists and engineers in Puerto Rico.

Expected Outcomes / Impact

• Installation and operation of a 3.7 m radio telescope at the UPR Humacao Astronomical Observatory
• Hands-on radio astronomy training for undergraduate research cohorts
• Integration of radio astronomy activities into the Astronomy Minor curriculum
• Expanded STEM outreach to high school students and underrepresented communities
• Strengthened educational capacity in radio sciences across Puerto Rico

This CARSE-supported project establishes a radio astronomy educational and research training component at the UPR Humacao Astronomical Observatory through the installation of a 3.7-meter radio telescope. The initiative provides undergraduate students with hands-on experience in radio observations, telescope operation, and data analysis while integrating radio astronomy into the institution’s Astronomy Minor curriculum. The program supports student research training, strengthens STEM education opportunities in eastern Puerto Rico, and expands local capacity in radio sciences following the loss of the main telescope at the Arecibo Observatory.