Last updated: 1/11/2019
3489 Observatory Place
Cincinnati, OH 45208
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Craig Niemi
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Dean Regas
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Anna Hehman
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John Ventre
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Samantha Pepper
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Richard A. Davis
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Kelsey Stryfee
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Located atop the rolling hills of Mt. Lookout, the Cincinnati Observatory is home to the world's oldest telescope still in use nightly by the general public. Two handsome National Historic Landmark buildings and the beautiful grounds provide a serene, park-like setting while still being centrally located in the city of Cincinnati.
The mission of the Cincinnati Observatory Center will be to maintain the integrity and heritage of a historic 19th century observatory while promoting the study and practice of 21st century astronomy and science.
The Cincinnati Observatory Center is known as "The Birthplace of American Astronomy." It houses one of the oldest working telescopes and was the first public observatory in the western hemisphere.
On the 9th of November, 1843, a crowd of thousands witnessed former president John Quincy Adams preside over the dedication of the observatory, "The Lighthouse of the Sky," and the laying of the cornerstone. It was at the dedication that Adams gave his last public speech.
In 1979 the Observatory formally became part of the Physics Department of the University of Cincinnati. The Observatory continued to be used for public education as well as for research by graduate students and others at the University of Cincinnati.
Houses a collection of astronomy & space science artifacts from the late 19th to early 20th century including two historic (1845 & 1904), fully functioning telescopes.
Our research collection is in process of being catalogued. Inquiries are welcome.
Daytime tours
2nd & 4th Sunday Tours
Public Astronomy Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays.
Special events related to astronomical events (eclipses, planets visible, meteor showers, etc).
K-12 field trips and outreach programs.
University Programs
Class and events for Lifelong Learners.
Member programs and activities
Situated on 14 over 10 acres of urban green-space our campus includes two late 19th century observatories. /// Two vintage telescopes /// Two classrooms /// Museum/Exhibit space /// Restrooms /// Outdoor features include a 450' (1"=1 million miles)scaled planet walk and interactive patio sundial.
Auditoriums
Lecture Halls
A 501c3 the Observatory currently has a 19 members board of trustees.
A modest gift shop of Observatory branded, astronomical books/merchandise and telescopes.
We offer the 1873 building for weddings, receptions and other private events. Also corporate retreats/business meetings. (~75 person capacity)
The Observatory is a lovely, unique, park like setting ideal for smaller, intimate wedding ceremonies, receptions, business meetings, dinners, cocktail parties, adult birthdays and reunions. To schedule an walk-through, check availability, or schedule an event, please contact Kelsey Stryffe at 513-321-5186, kelsey@cincinnatiobservatory.org
Gift Shop
Event Rental
Group Tours
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