Clyde W - Archives & Special Collections - New Mexico State ...

Overview
Clyde W. Tombaugh Papers, ca. 150 linear ft.
Personal and professional papers of the planetary astronomer who discovered Pluto in
1930. Personal papers document Tombaugh's Kansas boyhood, his early interest in astronomy
and telescope making, and his arrival at Lowell Observatory, Flagstaff, Arizona, in 1929. Later
materials concern his diverse interests in politics, education, and religion, and his family life.
The extensive professional papers span Tombaugh's full career, from his observational work at
Lowell to his tenure at New Mexico State University (NMSU). Tombaugh's employment at the
White Sands Proving Ground (1946-1955) and his research in optics are included. The Near
Earth Satellite Search, a study initiated by Tombaugh at White Sands and continued during his
subsequent employment at NMSU is thoroughly documented. The bulk of the professional
papers concern his employment at NMSU (1955-1973) and his work with the Planetary Patrol
and Study Project. Records also illustrate the development of the NMSU Department of
Astronomy. Correspondence with prominent professional and amateur astronomers,
astrophysicists, and experts in related sciences is found throughout the collection, as are such
visual materials as drawings, photographs, and maps.
Access and Use
Open. This material may be examined by researchers under supervised conditions in the Search
Room.
Copyright. Limited duplication is allowed for research purposes. User is responsible for
compliance with all copyright and other applicable statutes. Patricia Tombaugh retains copyright
interest in her works and in the unpublished works of Clyde W. Tombaugh during her lifetime,
after which time they transfer to New Mexico State University. Rights associated with materials
in this collection created by parties other than Patricia and Clyde W. Tombaugh are held by the
creators of such materials.
Preferred Citation
Clyde W. Tombaugh Papers. Ms0407. Archives and Special Collections, New Mexico State
University Library.
NMSU Library/Archives & Special Collections C. W. Tombaugh Papers / Ms0407
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