Petit Jean Mountain observatory

Petit Jean Mountain observatory sits atop Petit Jean Mountain in Morrilton, Arkansas, home to the Arkansas Sky Observatory.

About Petit Jean Mountain observatory

The Arkansas Sky Observatory was founded in 1971 by Dr. P. Clay Sherrod together with the Central Arkansas Astronomical Society. It is one of just 300 Harvard-designated astrometry measurement observatories worldwide, and ranks 12th in the United States by number of observations submitted.

History

Since its founding in 1971, the observatory has contributed more than 50,000 orbital measurements of comets and asteroids to the wider astronomical community. A primary research facility, Petit Jean Mountain South, was added in 2005 to expand the site's capabilities.

Telescopes & research

Astrometry — precisely measuring the positions of comets and asteroids — is the observatory's core scientific contribution, alongside a strong emphasis on community outreach and public engagement with astronomy.

Location & getting there

The observatory is located on Petit Jean Mountain in Morrilton, Arkansas, in the North America region — a scenic, elevated site typical of the mountain's popularity with visitors.

Visiting Petit Jean Mountain observatory

Community outreach is a stated focus of the observatory, though current opening hours and event details are best confirmed through the Central Arkansas Astronomical Society or local Petit Jean Mountain visitor resources before you travel.

See your named star from here

An observatory built for precise astrometry is well equipped to point at exact coordinates — including those of a star you've named through Star Register. Check your star's position in our star catalogue before visiting.