Experience of Being the Pioneer Who Unearthed a Black Hole, as Expressed by Black Hole Co-Discoverer Paul Murdin in an Interview
In the 1960s, Paul Murdin joined the Anglo-Australian Observatory as one of its first members of staff. His tenure was marked by his involvement in the transfer of the Isaac Newton Telescope (INT) and the construction of the William Herschel Telescope.
The INT, originally built at the Herstmonceux Estate in East Sussex, UK, faced a change of location due to the unforgiving English weather. It moved to the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory on the island of La Palma in the 1980s. Paul Murdin supported this move, but found it challenging to work with the constantly changing weather and the difficulty in operating the telescope.
During its time at Herstmonceux, the INT made a groundbreaking discovery - the first discovery of a black hole. This achievement was made by Paul Murdin and his colleague, Louise Webster, who made the first ever clear identification of a black hole in Cygnus X-1 in 1971. This discovery was a significant milestone in the history of astronomy.
Paul Murdin and Louise Webster were originally associated with the Royal Greenwich Observatory. Following the discovery of the black hole in Cygnus X-1, Paul Murdin was moved from a research fellow to a permanent employee. Tragically, Louise Webster passed away in 1990.
The INT was not initially designed to be run for the benefit of university astronomers, but it found its purpose at La Palma. Its size and placement made it possible for Paul Murdin and other researchers to study relatively bright stars that other telescopes might have considered a waste, leading to further discoveries.
In addition to his research, Paul Murdin also supported visitors who were using the INT. He helped them operate the equipment, discussed aspects of their program, and addressed any equipment issues with the engineering support staff.
The first paper that came out of the Isaac Newton Telescope was by Michael Penston, who made a spectral analysis of a Seyfert galaxy at Herstmonceux and found that the galaxy had changed its nature when re-observed at La Palma.
As of 2017, the Isaac Newton Telescope continues to make discoveries, a testament to its enduring significance in the field of astronomy. This interview with Paul Murdin, conducted by our website in 2017, offers a unique insight into his career and the impact of the INT on the world of astronomy.
In conclusion, Paul Murdin's contributions to astronomy, particularly his work with the Isaac Newton Telescope and the discovery of the first black hole, have left an indelible mark on the field. His story serves as a reminder of the perseverance, dedication, and curiosity that drive scientific discovery.
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