ATU Astronomical Observatory

The Astronomical Observatory at Arkansas Tech University (ATU) in Russellville, Arkansas is an educational and research facility serving students, faculty, and the local astronomy community. Located adjacent to McEver Hall on the university campus, the observatory operates at 107 metres elevation.

About ATU Astronomical Observatory

The observatory is equipped with a Clarke 16-inch reflector telescope, a significant instrument for undergraduate and amateur astronomical research. ATU also maintains affiliation with a robotic research telescope at River Ridge Observatory, expanding capabilities for remote observations and research programmes.

Research and Education

The observatory supports astronomical research including variable star studies, astrometry, and exoplanet research. It is affiliated with several regional and national astronomy organisations including the Central Arkansas Astronomical Society (CAAS), the Astronomical League, and the American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO).

Location & Getting There

Situated in Russellville in the heart of Arkansas, ATU Observatory is located on the university campus in north-central United States. The region offers reasonable dark-sky viewing conditions for a university facility.

Visiting ATU Observatory

The observatory is utilised primarily by students and faculty for research. Public access is limited to special announced astronomy events, which are promoted through the university's social media channels and website. Contact Arkansas Tech University's Physics Department for information on upcoming public events.

See Your Named Star from Here

Staff at ATU Observatory can use the Clarke 16-inch telescope to view any point in the sky specified by coordinates. To find a star you've named, visit our star-naming packages and star catalogue to register and view its coordinates.