Halstead Observatory

Halstead Observatory once stood on the campus of Princeton University in New Jersey, one of the university's earliest dedicated astronomy buildings. Though the structure no longer survives, its history remains part of Princeton's scientific heritage.

About Halstead Observatory

Halstead Observatory was built between 1865 and 1869 on what is now University Place, then known as Railroad Avenue, on the Princeton University campus in New Jersey. Its construction was funded by Nathaniel Halstead, a general who served in the American Civil War.

History

For over six decades the observatory served Princeton's astronomy programme from its site near the heart of campus. In 1932 it was demolished to make way for Joline Hall, and no trace of the original building remains today.

Location

The observatory stood in Princeton, New Jersey, in the north-eastern United States, on the university's historic campus.

Visiting today

Because Halstead Observatory was demolished in 1932, there's nothing left on-site to visit; the location is now occupied by Joline Hall. Anyone interested in its history can still explore Princeton University's campus and archives.

See your named star from here

Even without a physical observatory to visit, you can still name a star and receive its exact coordinates, ready to find with binoculars, a home telescope, or at any working observatory near you. Browse the catalogue to see stars already named.