OSU's "Big Ear" appeal by Arthur C. Clarke

The following letter by Arthur C. Clarke was solicited by Stuart Kingsley on behalf of the OSU SETI Group:

                      Arthur C. Clarke, CBE


Dr. Gordon Gee                                    27 January 1995
President
Ohio State University
205 Bricker Hall
190 N Oval Mall
Columbus OH 43210



Dear Dr. Gordon Gee,


                             BIG EAR

I am appalled to hear that this historic telescope is still under threat, after
its unique ability to explore the radio universe has been demonstrated for
so many years.  Even if it is decommissioned, it should be preserved as a 
national monument, like the gantries at Cape Canaveral!

The discoveries it has already made should act as an inspiration to  the
rising generation, and perhaps help turn back the tide of
anti-intellectualism which threatens to engulf the Western world in a new
Dark Age of neo-barbarism.

I hope you will be able to preserve an instrument which has perhaps
done more than anything else to make your University famous throughout 
the world!

All good wishes,

 
                                                     Dr. Arthur C. Clarke, CBE

                                    Chancellor: University of Moratuwa
                                    Chancellor: International Space University  

Big Ear