Because different astrophysical processes show characteristic emission at different wavelengths, astronomers seek many different wavelength windows to the universe. The difficulty of making infrared observations from typical optical observatories led NASA to construct a 3-meter dedicated telescope on the summit of Mauna Kea, Hawaii in the mid-1970's. NASA decided, however, that half the total observing time would satisfy its needs, and allocated the other half to visitors. The National Science Foundation has provided funds to support these visitors since the opening of the telescope in 1979. While the NASA observers examine objects related in some way to NASA space missions, the visitors are free to observe any object of sufficient scientific interest, whether in or out of our Galaxy. The modest amount of money is used for accommodations, local transportation, cryogen (to cool the receivers), and publication in the scientific journals. The success and diversity of the program fully justify its continued funding.
