Apollo Observatory

Apollo Observatory sits on the grounds of the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery in Dayton, Ohio, where a dedicated group of amateur astronomers has been sharing the night sky with the public for more than fifty years.

About Apollo Observatory

The observatory is owned by the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and operated by the Miami Valley Astronomical Society (MVAS), a volunteer astronomy club that also uses the building for meetings and maintains a members' library on site.

History

Apollo Observatory was dedicated in 1969, taking its name from the Project Apollo Moon landings of the same era. Its original building and its 20-inch (50cm) telescope were designed with guidance from the Miami Valley Astronomical Society. In 1971 the museum added a companion Junior Observing and Training Station, giving young volunteers their own dedicated space to learn observing skills.

Telescopes & research

The main instrument is a 50cm (20-inch) telescope housed on the second floor of the observatory building, used chiefly for public and member observing rather than professional research. The adjoining Junior Observing and Training Station gives newer astronomers, including young people, hands-on practice with smaller telescopes.

Location & getting there

The observatory is part of the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery campus in Dayton, Ohio, easily reached as part of a museum visit.

Visiting Apollo Observatory

Apollo Observatory opens free to the public every clear Friday evening from 8:00 to 11:00 PM. Because Ohio skies aren't always cooperative, it's worth calling the museum after 7:30 PM on the night you plan to visit to confirm the observatory is open.

See your named star from here

Every star named through our register comes with real right ascension and declination coordinates, so a volunteer with a telescope like the one at Apollo Observatory can point straight to it on a clear Friday night. Name a star of your own, or explore what's already been named in our star catalogue.