Observatory

The A&M Commerce observatory was developed to house the Physics and Astronomy Department telescopes at a permanent location.  The observatory is used in the astronomy classes taught at the University and for research by University personnel.

The observatory houses a number of telescopes which can be used simultaneously. These include a 16-inch, two 10-inch and two 8-inch telescopes. The largest telescope is a Meade 16-inch LX200 Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with a 5-inch Televue refractor piggybacked on the side. This telescope is housed in a dome and completely computer controlled. The 8 and 10-inch telescopes are mounted on piers which are aligned with the stars.

Along with looking through the telescopes they can also be used for astronomical imaging and research. The observatory uses a special CCD camera which is made specifically to image very faint astronomical objects.  This camera picks up details that the eye is unable to see.  Cameras can also be used to collect light for long periods of times, sometimes over an hour, in order to capture the faintest details possible. A sample of some of the images taken at the observatory can be seen below.

Announcements

In celebration of the International Year of Astronomy, A&M Commerce is hosting an open house at the new observatory on Monday , December 14 2009 from 8:30 to 10:00 pm, weather permitting. If it is overcast the open house will be canceled. The open house is free of charge and anyone can attend.

Location

Directions: The observatory is located 5 miles south of Commerce. Traveling south of Commerce on highway 50 turn east on county road 4208. Travel on this road for approximately half a mile and on your left will be the entrance to the observatory. (map)

Physical Location: 1660 County Road 4208, Campbell, TX 75422-1766 US