HOLMDEL, NJ – The Big Bang Theory, a theory widely supported by the scientific community that the universe began as a single point and is expanding outward, has a direct link to New Jersey.
It was the Horn Antenna at Bell Labs’ research facility in Holmdel that provided enough evidence for radio astronomers Arno Penzias and Robert Wilson to confirm the Big Bang Theory proposed by scientists George Gamow and Georges Lemaître. Wilson and Penzias would later go on to win Nobel Peace Prizes in physics for their work.
Now, the Horn Antenna, a national historic landmark, is at risk.
Senator Declan O’Scanlon (R-Monmouth) has thrown his weight behind efforts to protect the historic Horn Antenna in Holmdel, which played a vital role in confirming the Big Bang theory in 1965.
The senator voiced his support for the preservation campaign, acknowledging the landmark’s contribution to scientific understanding.
“The Holmdel Horn Antenna was invaluable in helping us to understand how the universe began,” said O’Scanlon. “We cannot allow this important historic landmark to be destroyed by development. It is critical that we pursue every avenue to preserve this piece of our history for posterity.”
Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the Horn Antenna is a significant piece of American scientific heritage, and its destruction would represent a significant loss to the country’s scientific community. As such, O’Scanlon threw his weight behind local officials and residents fighting to preserve the antenna and explore every available option to save it.
“I support the efforts of local government officials to investigate options to save the Horn Antenna, and I am proud to see so many of our residents stand up and make their voices known in this fight,” said the senator.
As the campaign to save the Horn Antenna continues, supporters hope to garner more support from lawmakers and residents alike, in the fight to protect this important piece of scientific history for future generations.
