Daniel S. Schanck Observatory

The Daniel S. Schanck Observatory is a two-story structure on the Queens Campus with architecture inspired by the Tower of Winds in Athens. The building houses a restored 150-mm refractor telescope manufactured in Paris and donated in 1929.

Built in 1866 with funds from businessman Daniel S. Schanck, the observatory ranks among the seven oldest in the United States. It shares this distinction with the Vassar College Observatory, marking an important milestone in American scientific institutions.

The building is named after the businessman who funded its construction and reflects the university's commitment to scientific education in its earliest years. Visitors can observe how the structure itself became a symbol of institutional pride in advancing knowledge and discovery.

The observatory is located on George Street near Hamilton Street on the Queens Campus and is accessible during special university events such as Rutgers Day. Student and alumni volunteers offer tours during these occasions, providing insight into the building's history and scientific instruments.

The building served as Rutgers University's first science structure, providing astronomical education to students from the mid-1800s through the late 1900s. This extended period of academic use makes it one of America's longest-serving university observatories.

Location: New Brunswick

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

Part of: Queens Campus, Rutgers University

GPS coordinates: 40.49944,-74.44528

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:07