1948 Palomar Observatory Plate Block of 4 3c Postage Stamps - MNH, OG - Sc# 966 - CX928

1948 Palomar Observatory Plate Block of 4 3c Postage Stamps - MNH, OG - Sc# 966 - CX928

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1948 Palomar Observatory Plate Block of 4 3c Postage Stamps - MNH, OG - Sc# 966 - CX928

U.S. #966 honors the dedication of the Palomar Mountain Observatory, home of the 200-inch Hale telescope. The Palomar Observatory Located atop Palomar Mountain in southwestern California, the Palomar Observatory houses the Hale telescope, one of the world's largest optical telescopes (meaning it collects and focuses visible light). Named after the astronomer who planned its construction, the Hale telescope has a 200-inch mirror. Efforts to create the observatory began in the 1920s, and Palomar was selected as the site for the observatory in 1934. However, the Hale telescope was not made operational until November 18, 1947. Quasars, extremely bright objects located at the center of other galaxies, were first detected using the Hale telescope in 1963. The energy from quasars takes billions of years to reach the Earth. Because of this, information about quasars helps scientists learn more about the nature of our universe. The observatory also has several smaller telescopes. One of these, the 48-inch Ochin telescope, specializes in making wide-angle photographs. This has been useful in mapping the northern sky and creating a reference "sky atlas" for scientific use all over the world.

 

These are real USPS postage stamps that are accepted by the USA Postal Service as payment for mail posted in the USA however the total rates on the stamps posted must equal or exceed the current appropriate postal mailing rate or extra postage must be paid.

 

The stamp set shown in the picture is a stock photo and is likely not a picture of the exact stamp set you will receive and it may differ in plate number and/or orientation. However the item you will receive will be similar including having a plate number (if one is present in the photos) and the same number of stamps. Stamps titled as MNH, OG will have no significant creases or unnatural gum disturbances unless otherwise noted.