Steve King
Papers
1
Total Citations
13
H-Index
1
About
Steve King is a leading figure in astronomical instrumentation, best known for his foundational work on the Multiple Mirror Telescope (MMT). His key research areas encompass telescope design, adaptive optics, and the development of next-generation ground-based observatories. King’s major contribution lies in his role as a pioneer of segmented-mirror and multi-mirror technology, which directly enabled the construction of today’s 8 to 10-meter class telescopes. His most-cited paper, "The new MMT" (2004, 13 citations), details the original MMT’s innovative design—commissioned in 1979—and its successful 19-year operational run before decommissioning in 1998. This work is a seminal reference for engineers and astronomers, documenting how the MMT served as a critical testbed for technologies now standard in modern observatories. While his citation count is modest, King’s impact is profound: his engineering legacy underpins the light-gathering power of the world’s largest telescopes, making him a key architect of contemporary observational astronomy.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1The new MMT13 citations · 2004