Wilder Observatory

Wilder Observatory stands on Snell Street on the Amherst College campus in Massachusetts, an architecturally distinguished building that has watched over the town's night sky for well over a century.

About Wilder Observatory

The observatory is owned by Amherst College and was designed by the noted architectural firm McKim, Mead & White, whose work also includes many other landmark American buildings of the era.

History

Wilder Observatory was renovated in 2001, with its telescope updated alongside the building itself, keeping the historic structure in active use for both the college and the wider community.

Telescopes & research

The Amherst Area Amateur Astronomers Association holds observing nights at the observatory, giving members of the public the chance to look through its telescope under the guidance of experienced amateur astronomers.

Location & getting there

Wilder Observatory is located on Snell Street in Amherst, Massachusetts, a college town in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts, within the wider Five College area of the state.

Visiting Wilder Observatory

Public access is generally through observing nights organised by the Amherst Area Amateur Astronomers Association; check the association's schedule before planning a visit, as sessions typically depend on clear weather.

See your named star from here

With community observing nights and a telescope updated as recently as 2001, Wilder Observatory is a solid option for trying to spot a star named through Star Register — bring the right ascension and declination from your certificate along to a session. Browse the catalogue or visit our packages to name a star of your own.