James Gregory Telescope

The James Gregory Telescope is an optical instrument with a mirror diameter of 0.94 meters (37 inches) that operates as a Schmidt-Cassegrain reflector at the University of St Andrews observatory in Scotland. The design combines mirror and corrector lens elements to enable observations across a wide field of view.

Constructed in 1962, the telescope was the largest Schmidt-Cassegrain instrument in the United Kingdom at the time of its completion. This advancement enabled the university to undertake more ambitious astronomical research and observations.

The telescope is named after James Gregory, a 17th-century Scottish mathematician and astronomer. This naming choice reflects the university's connection to Scotland's scientific heritage and the region's role in advancing astronomy.

The telescope is located at the university campus and operates for observations when skies are clear and favorable. Check ahead with the observatory before planning a visit, as viewing sessions depend on weather conditions and scheduled research activities.

The telescope operates using only a portion of its total aperture, with the remaining mirror area reserved for future modifications. This partial utilization of the full optical capability is an often-overlooked aspect of the instrument's design.

Location: Fife

Diameter: 0.94 m

Website: http://observatory.wp.st-andrews.ac.uk

GPS coordinates: 56.33715,-2.81650

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:06