Dudley Observatory

Founded in 1856, Dudley Observatory is the oldest non-academic institution of astronomical research in America, and today operates as an astronomy education non-profit near Albany, New York.

About Dudley Observatory

Dudley Observatory has moved twice in its long history: from its original home in Albany, New York (1856–1973), to Schenectady (1973–2019), and finally to its current location in Loudonville, New York, since 2019. It once operated as a working research observatory and has since transitioned into a mission-driven education organisation.

History

Over more than 160 years, Dudley Observatory has shifted from active astronomical research to a focus on public and student education, while retaining its identity as America's oldest non-academic astronomy institution.

Telescopes & research

Today the organisation runs Ask an Astronomer sessions for K-12 students, StarLab portable planetarium presentations, scout programmes, and astronomy camps, alongside professional development for educators. It partners with Siena College's Breyo Observatory to support hands-on astronomy access.

Location & getting there

Dudley Observatory is now based in Loudonville, New York, in the North America region, near Albany.

Visiting Dudley Observatory

As an education-focused non-profit, Dudley Observatory runs scheduled programmes and events rather than fixed public opening hours; check the official website for upcoming activities before visiting.

See your named star from here

An institution built around teaching people to explore the sky is a fitting place to plan a visit with your own named star in mind. Name a star at /#packages, then use its coordinates to find it in the star catalogue.