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21 developed to explore further the life history and systematics of various kinds of organisms from the Indian River and adjacent Atlantic Ocean. This activity is funded exclusively with trust funds, and resources are expected to remain relatively stable over the planning period. [[underlined]] Astrophysical Observatory [[/underlined]]. Over the next five years, the Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) will concentrate available new resources on two major questions of astronomy: (1) the origin and evolution of galaxies, and (2) the origin and evolution of stars like the Sun, including the Sun itself. During the 1980's, these two areas are particularly ripe for investigation. The study of galaxies should bear significant results because of the increasing availability and reliability of large and sensitive instruments, such as the Observatory's Multiple Mirror Telescope (MMT)^2 located at Mt. Hopkins in Arizona, and X-Ray Imaging Detectors. The study of the Sun and similar stars is important because of the necessity to understand their close relationships to planetary sciences, earth sciences, and biological sciences. During the planning period, an effort will be made to increase selectively the research staff to take advantage of these opportunities. Particular emphasis will be given to X-ray astronomy in an effort to capitalize on the wealth of information provided by the Einstein Satellite (the orbiting HEAO-2 X-ray telescope) which stopped operating late in April 1981. In addition, a strengthening of the solar physics program is planned through phasing of additional resources into the Langley-Abbot program. There are continuing administrative and support needs which the SAO hopes to address successfully during this planning period. For FY 1984, in particular, the Observatory is requesting funds to remedy situations which have developed over the past 20 years and are now seriously impairing the effectiveness of the SAO's research program and productivity of the staff. Specifically, monies will be sought to establish a program to replace old, worn out and obsolete laboratory and test equipment, most of which is 10 years old, and to provide additional federal resources for the cost of space and communications associated with the administrative service function, now largely borne out of overhead funds. Additional funds for a vehicle replacement program at the Whipple Observatory will be sought over the period. The MMT is almost fully operational, being used about 80 percent or more for scientific observations, and should be fully utilized by the end of FY 1983. Its performance characteristics exceed the original design specifications established back in 1972. The site on which the MMT is located is an excellent site in terms of astronomical seeing quality. The combination of excellent telescope performance and site characteristics results in the MMT's being the best infrared telescope in the world. Improvements in the optics are needed, however, in order to be able to take [[line]] 2 Renamed the Fred L. Whipple Observatory on September 14, 1981.
