Peach Mountain Observatory

Peach Mountain Observatory is an astronomical facility near Dexter that contains a 26-meter radio telescope and a McMath 24-inch reflecting telescope within the Stinchfield Woods research area. The instruments sit on wooded grounds and support both sky observation and data collection work.

The University of Michigan established this facility in 1955 and installed the McMath-Hulbert telescope in 1959 after relocating it from another site. The radio telescope conducted measurements of radio emissions until 2010 and contributed to the region's space research efforts.

An amateur astronomy club actively uses the McMath telescope and hosts public viewing nights throughout the year. The group has made this place a gathering spot where visitors can observe the sky together and connect with fellow astronomy enthusiasts.

The site is located at 315 meters elevation in a wooded area with a control building containing positioning and data recording equipment. Wear sturdy footwear since the terrain is uneven and pathways wind through the forest.

The 26-meter radio telescope measured flux density and linear polarization of radio emissions from distant galaxies at frequencies up to 16 GHz. This specialized research made the facility an important center for studying radio sources in space.

Location: Michigan

GPS coordinates: 42.39880,-83.93550

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:48