Arecibo Radar-Radio Telescope-Design and Construction

The design and construction of the radar-radio telescope at the Arecibo Ionospheric Observatory is described. The fixed-dish spherical reflector has an 870-ft radius and a 1,000-ft diameter. The movable feed, capable of scanning the sky to 20? from the zenith, is independently suspended from three reinforced concrete towers using steel cables. Rigid specifications and a low budget required the application of many advanced structural, mechanical, and electronic concepts. The site selection, construction of the towers using slip frames, and erection and suspension of the movable feed are described in detail.