Perkins Observatory

Perkins Observatory
Main facade
LocationDelaware, Delaware County, Ohio
Coordinates40°15′04″N 83°03′22″W / 40.251°N 83.056°W / 40.251; -83.056
Perkins Observatory is located in the United States
Perkins Observatory
Location of Perkins Observatory

Perkins Observatory is an astronomical observatory in Delaware, Ohio. It is owned and operated by Ohio Wesleyan University.

In 1931 it had the third largest telescope in the World; the 69 inch aperture Perkins telescope came online at this observatory.[1] The mirror was the largest cast in the United States up to that time, and it was made by the United States National Bureau of Standards.[1]

In the 1930s this observatory also started periodic document release called The Telescope, featuring results from the telescope but grew to include other astronomical information.[1]

The University partnered with Ohio State University in 1935, to help run the big telescope and the agreement lasted for almost seven decades.[1] In the 1960s the telescope was moved to Arizona, USA for better viewing conditions, and fitted with new larger mirror.[1] Nevertheless, the Observatory continued to be a hub of astronomical activity in the region and for the University.

In the 21st century the Observatory supports various public and academic astronomical activities and is a source for information such as NEO flybys in the community.[2]

  1. ^ a b c d e "Perkins Observatory | History | Perkins Observatory". owu.edu/perkins. Retrieved 2021-08-27.
  2. ^ Letizia, Jim (24 May 2019). "Rare Asteroid Passing By Earth This Weekend". www.wcbe.org. Retrieved 2019-10-01.