Rose-Hulman Observatory

Rose-Hulman Observatory, officially named the Oakley Observatory, sits on the campus of Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, Indiana, where it supports both students and the public.

About Rose-Hulman Observatory

The Oakley Observatory was founded in 2000 through a grant from the Oakley Foundation and serves as an educational resource, enriching student learning through hands-on astronomy while also acting as a resource for the local community.

Telescopes & research

The facility houses eight permanently mounted telescopes, ranging from an 1886 Clark and Sons six-inch refractor to reflecting telescopes between 8 and 22 inches. Astronomers working at the site, including Chris Wolfe, have discovered numerous minor planets.

Location & getting there

The observatory is located on the east end of the Rose-Hulman campus in Terre Haute, Indiana, near the Hunt Road entrance.

Visiting Rose-Hulman Observatory

Rose-Hulman Observatory hosts free public open house events, giving visitors a chance to look through its telescopes. Check the institute's website for the current schedule before planning a visit.

See your named star from here

An 1886 refractor and modern reflectors both point at the same sky where your named star sits. Name a star and locate its coordinates in our catalogue before your visit.