Elginfield Observatory

Elginfield Observatory was a research facility dedicated to sky studies with a large telescope equipped for various scientific measurement techniques. The instrument could be adapted in different ways to gather and analyze light signals from stars and other distant objects.

The observatory was established in 1969 by the University of Western Ontario and operated research projects for four decades to advance understanding of celestial objects. The facility ceased operations in 2010, marking the end of an era of ground-based astronomical research in the region.

This facility served as a hub for serious sky research, drawing students and researchers curious about stellar behavior and distant celestial objects. It shaped how people understood professional astronomy being conducted in Canada.

The facility was situated in a rural location north of London, Ontario, which provided less light pollution and better observing conditions. Visitors should be aware of the remote setting and note that the site is no longer operational.

The telescope could be adjusted to three different optical positions, allowing scientists to use different instruments simultaneously or in succession. This flexibility was an unusual feature that let the facility conduct various types of sky studies.

Location: Middlesex Centre

Official opening: 1969

Elevation above the sea: 325 m

Website: http://astro.uwo.ca/~dfgray/Elginfield_Observatory.html

GPS coordinates: 43.19240,-81.31580

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:27