Ohio University Observatory Opening Set for May 6

The Ohio University Physics & Astronomy Department and the Astrophysical Institute host a formal opening of the new Ohio University Observatory on Saturday, May 6, at 7:30 p.m. at The Ridges Auditorium.

Public viewing of celestial bodies using the department’s refurbished Fecker telescope and portable telescopes will be possible, weather permitting.

“The observatory will provide new opportunities for students and community members to learn about the cosmos and see celestial objects in our solar system and beyond,” says Dr. Joseph Shields, Vice President for Research & Creative Activity and Dean of the Graduate College. “While the university has offered viewing opportunities with portable telescopes for many years, the observatory will provide a permanent home for OHIO’s historic 10-inch telescope and a dedicated viewing platform for other instruments.”

The Ohio University Observatory opening event is free and open to the public. Organizers recommend attendees wear sturdy walking shoes and bring binoculars to view the night sky while waiting to use a portable telescope available during the event. Astronomers will be on hand to describe the night sky. Shuttle service is available for visitors who require transportation assistance.

NOTE: Free parking is provided; this event takes place indoors in The Ridges Auditorium. Weather permitting, visitors will be invited during the second half of the evening to walk up to the Observatory where the Fecker telescope will be on view and portable telescopes will be available during the event.

Questions may also be directed to Jean Andrews,  Special Projects Assistant in the department, at at andrewj4@ohio.edu. This event is sponsored by Astrophysical Institute faculty members.

Attend Summer Stargazing Events at the Observatory

• Public Telescope Nights at Ohio University Observatory

Public stargazing events at the Observatory are sponsored by members of OHIO’s Astrophysical Institute. Summer stargazing nights at the observatory are scheduled for June 2, 3, 14, 30 and on July 1, 14, 15, and 28. All public stargazing events at the Observatory are scheduled from 9:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Clouds or stormy weather cancels the evening activity.

For information not found on the Observatory’s website about summer stargazing events at the Observatory, email the Department at physics@ohio.edu.

Parking is available in university lots 202, 200, and 201, which are open to visitors after 5 p.m. on weekdays and on weekends. These lots are located near The Ridges Auditorium.

NOTE: Cloudy or stormy weather cancels stargazing. Consult the parking map above for free parking. A dark green permit or purple permit parking sign designates “Student Commuter and Faculty/Staff Parking.” A permit is required 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The lots are open to public all other times, unless reserved for a special event.