Tamke-Allan Observatory

Tamke-Allan Observatory is an astronomical observation facility in Rockwood equipped with multiple telescopes for viewing the sky. The site houses an 8-inch refractor telescope and a 12-inch reflector telescope, positioned at an elevation of 336 meters (1,100 feet) in eastern Tennessee.

The observatory opened in 1998 as part of Roane State Community College and became an important center for astronomical research in the region. Its establishment marked a milestone in bringing professional-level observation and education to eastern Tennessee.

The facility hosts regular public stargazing nights where local astronomy enthusiasts gather to observe the night sky together. These sessions create a meeting point where visitors and amateur astronomers share their interest in the cosmos and explore the stars as a community.

The site is accessible from Interstate 40 by taking the Midtown exit and following Highway 70 toward Caney Creek Road. The location offers clear views of the night sky and is relatively straightforward to reach once you know the route.

The facility operates radio telescopes alongside its optical instruments for broader astronomical research capabilities. This combination allows visitors to experience different approaches to exploring the universe beyond traditional visual observation.