Goethe Link Observatory

Goethe Link Observatory is an astronomical facility located near Martinsville that houses a 36-inch reflecting telescope as its primary instrument. The telescope sits mounted on a substantial concrete foundation and rises approximately 30 feet above the surrounding ground.

The observatory was financed and built by Dr. Goethe Link, an Indianapolis surgeon, between 1937 and 1939. Link donated the facility to Indiana University in 1948.

The Indiana Astronomical Society organizes educational programs at the observatory to advance understanding of celestial objects and astronomical phenomena.

The facility operates during Indiana Astronomical Society meetings at Observatory Lane near Martinsville and welcomes visitors for evening observation sessions. Contact the society in advance to confirm viewing times, as public access depends on scheduled meetings.

Between 1949 and 1966, researchers at this facility discovered 119 asteroids using a specialized 10-inch telescope as part of the Indiana Asteroid Program. This focused search effort significantly expanded knowledge about small bodies orbiting between Mars and Jupiter.

Location: Indiana

Official opening: 1937

Elevation above the sea: 293 m

Website: http://astro.indiana.edu/goethelink.shtml

GPS coordinates: 39.55000,-86.39500

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:06