What is the USNO?
A History of Time and Space
Observing the Heavens
The United States Naval Observatory (USNO) is a bureau of the United States Navy that provides astronomical data, time standards, and spatial reference frames for the United States. The USNO was founded in 1830 as the Depot of Charts and Instruments, and its primary mission was to provide accurate maps and charts for the Navy. However, the USNO soon began to conduct astronomical observations, and by the end of the 19th century, it had become one of the leading astronomical observatories in the world.
Today, the USNO operates a number of telescopes and other instruments at its facilities in Washington, D.C., and Flagstaff, Arizona. The USNO's astronomers use these instruments to study a wide range of astronomical objects, including stars, planets, and galaxies. The USNO also provides timekeeping services for the United States, and its atomic clocks are used to synchronize clocks around the world.
A Vital Resource
The USNO is a vital resource for the United States Navy and for the nation as a whole. The USNO's data and services are used in a wide variety of applications, including navigation, surveying, and space exploration. The USNO also plays an important role in education and public outreach, and its website provides a wealth of information about astronomy and space science.
The USNO is a world-renowned center for astronomical research and a valuable resource for the United States Navy and the nation as a whole. The USNO's data and services are essential for a wide variety of applications, and its website provides a wealth of information about astronomy and space science.
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