InfoAge - Science History Learning Center and Museum

Harris Satellite Antenna Ceremony / 2005-04-13

HARRIS SATELLITE ANTENNA CEREMONY

AN OUTSTANDING SUCCESS!!

By any means of measurement, the morning of April 13, 2005, has to be considered an outstanding success. A multitude of honored guests and perfect Spring weather combined to assure that a very special event was about to unfold. For indeed, this ceremony marks a key step in the preservation of the historic Silent Sentinel Satellite Tracking Antenna (TLM-18) which in its service lifetime has tracked mankind's first satellites, changed the course of meteorology, and contributed to the saving of countless thousands of lives threatened by hurricanes and typhoons worldwide.

Essentially an outdoor event, the TLM-18 served  as a stage backdrop to the red, white and blue draped speaker's platform with Old Glory to the right and waving pleasantly in the gentle breeze. Museum Director Fred Carl provided the opening remarks and an overview of museum goals and successes while acting as host throughout the ceremony. Mayor Edward Thompson III then spoke regarding the importance of this project and its great value to Wall Township.

Major General Michael Mazzucchi, in command at Fort Monmouth, then took to the podium and provided much inspirational thought. He was briefly followed by Frank O'Brien of the Infoage Science-History Center providing insight on NASA Space Science Education at Infoage.

Mr. Jeff Perry, vice-president, Harris Corporation, was the concluding speaker. Harris Corporation is the original designer and manufacturer of this giant antenna and is very much a major player today in its area of expertise. It is with great honor that Harris presented a generous gift of $15,000 to the Infoage Learning Center as a means of furthering the preservation of the TLM-18. To say that this gift is  immensely appreciated by all of the Infoage staff would be an understatement of gigantic proportions!

Please enjoy our photo coverage of this happy event through the pictures that follow. Just click on those of your choice for a larger image. The ceremony concluded with refreshments for all and a tour of the Marconi Hotel and Marconi Cottages. And we should always remember, the image of a satellite antenna is an enduring symbol of our age. It represents our conquests into space and our quest to improve communications for the good of all mankind.

Last Updated on Friday, 14 October 2011 11:45