McCormick Observatory

McCormick Observatory is an astronomical facility on Mount Jefferson that houses a 26-inch refractor telescope designed by Alvan Clark & Sons, positioned beneath a rotating 45-foot dome with multiple shutters for viewing. The building sits at an elevation of about 260 meters and remains in active use for observation and education.

The observatory was founded in 1884 after Leander McCormick provided funding, prompted by communication between Robert E. Lee and Joseph Henry. This establishment reflected the growth of scientific institutions in Virginia during that era.

The facility conducts an educational program where astronomers present different topics during public viewing sessions on the first and third Friday nights.

Visitors need to register in advance to gain access, as the facility does not allow walk-in visits. Clear nights provide the best conditions for viewing and observation through the main telescope.

The telescope was already in use during the Transit of Venus in 1882, two years before the facility officially opened for regular operations. This shows how eager astronomers were to capture this rare celestial event.

Location: Albemarle County

Architects: Alvan Clark & Sons

Address: 600 McCormick Road

Website: http://astro.virginia.edu/research/observatories/McCormick.php

GPS coordinates: 38.03283,-78.52233

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:03