Public Observing at the KSU/NASA Observatory 41° 8' 31" N latitude 81° 19' 56" W longitude

Public observing sessions commence Friday, September 6.

The tradition of public astronomical observing at Kent State University goes back to 1938, when Prof. R. Emmons installed a 13 inch telescope between Rockwell and Franklin Halls. The KSU/NASA observatory is normally open for public observing on Friday evenings (weather permitting) beginning about one-half hour after sunset and lasting until about 10:30 pm. The sessions are free and open to all ages. The observatory is staffed by Kent State University students who will show you the wonders of the night sky.

KSU/NASA Robotic Telescope

Some Helpful Reminders About Public Observing Sessions

There may be evenings where changing weather conditions force us to close early. If the weather looks marginal, please call (330) 672-9747 to confirm that we are indeed open.
The Observatory is not heated. If you plan visit us in the winter months, please dress accordingly.
The Observatory is located at the end of a gravel driveway (approx. 200 ft. long)

If you or someone in your party has special needs, please contact the Department of Physics in advance, and we shall try to provide appropriate accommodations.
The Observatory does not have restrooms.
The dome proper only has room for about 8 people at once. We try to have a person outside the structure to answer questions, and often attending a portable telescope on the terrace.
If you have binoculars you may want to bring them. There are many interesting objects that are visible with binoculars that you can not see with the unaided eye.

Last Updated on Sept. 28, 2000

Department of Physics
Kent State University
Kent OH 44242
(330) 672-2246