Angell Hall Observatory

Angell Hall Observatory is located on the University of Michigan campus and houses a 0.4-meter Cassegrain telescope inside its dome along with several smaller instruments on the roof. The facility serves both research and educational purposes for students and the general public.

The observatory began operations in 1927 as the University of Michigan expanded its astronomical research capabilities and educational mission. This establishment was part of a broader academic development that solidified astronomy as an important field at the institution.

The Student Astronomical Society holds regular open houses where visitors can observe stars and planets directly through the telescopes without needing special knowledge. These gatherings bring together people of all ages interested in exploring the night sky from this campus location.

Access to the telescopes is arranged through regular public events that welcome beginners and experienced observers alike. It is best to arrive during evening hours when visibility of celestial objects is optimal for viewing.

The observatory houses a teaching planetarium equipped with a Zeiss projector that displays roughly 7,000 stars and shows celestial movements in accelerated time. This system allows visitors to understand cosmic dynamics without waiting for natural astronomical events to occur.

Location: Michigan

Official opening: 1927

Part of: Angell Hall

Website: http://lsa.umich.edu/astro

GPS coordinates: 42.27670,-83.73990

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:40