United States Naval Observatory
United States Naval Observatory, Astronomical observatory in Observatory Circle, Washington DC, United States.
The United States Naval Observatory houses advanced atomic clocks and telescopes for astronomical research and precise time measurement for military and civilian applications.
Established in 1830 as the Depot of Charts and Instruments, the observatory relocated from Foggy Bottom to its current location in 1893 to avoid city lights.
The observatory maintains the largest astronomy library in the United States, containing numerous rare books and documents about physics and celestial observations.
Visitors need valid identification to enter the facility and can join guided tours that explain the observatory's scientific operations and historical significance.
The grounds include Number One Observatory Circle, which has served as the official residence of the United States Vice President since 1974.
Location: Washington, D.C.
Inception: 1842
Official opening: 1893
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Address: 3450 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20392 20392
Website: https://cnmoc.usff.navy.mil/usno
GPS coordinates: 38.92139,-77.06694
Latest update: October 2, 2025 11:49
Number One Observatory Circle
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