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R. L. Millis, E. W. Dunham (Lowell Observatory), C. H. Smith, D. R. Blanco (EOS Technologies)
NGLT is a planned 4-m telescope that provides for wide-field optical imaging across a two-degree-diameter field of view at prime focus. The telescope can be quickly switched to an F/6 Ritchey-Chretien system for optical and near-IR spectroscopy and other applications. In its wide-field survey mode, the telescope will be capable of detecting approximately 200 Kuiper Belt Objects per night and could increase the detection rate of NEOs by a factor of 25 over current surveys. The telescope will be applicable to many other types of surveys including searches for a variety of time-variable phenomena. Optical and mechanical characteristics of the telescope will be described and preliminary site testing results for a promising new site in Northern Arizona will be discussed. At least half the cost of this $30M project will be provided by Lowell Observatory; participation by other private and/or governmental entities is welcome.