Washburn Observatory

Washburn Observatory has stood on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus since 1881, one of the longest-running astronomical sites in the American Midwest.

About Washburn Observatory

Located at 1401 Observatory Drive in Madison, Wisconsin, and carrying the historical observatory code 753, Washburn was completed in 1881 and served as a major research facility for roughly the next 50 years. Today the building is also home to the UW-Madison College of Letters and Science Honors Program, while astronomy continues alongside that academic use.

History

For half a century after its 1881 completion, Washburn Observatory was central to research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, before its scientific role gradually shifted as the university's astronomy programme grew and modernised.

Telescopes & research

The observatory's telescope remains in active use, now serving students in introductory astronomy courses as well as members of the public during open houses and viewings organised by the university.

Location & getting there

Washburn Observatory sits at 1401 Observatory Drive on the UW-Madison campus in Madison, Wisconsin, easy to reach as part of the university grounds.

Visiting Washburn Observatory

UW-Madison runs public observing at Washburn Observatory; check the university astronomy department's website for current open house dates and viewing conditions before you go.

See your named star from here

A telescope with 140-plus years of history behind it is a fitting place to think about a star's coordinates in the present. Explore our naming packages or browse the star catalogue to find a star to look for on your next visit.