EIU Media Relations

Public Invited to View Skies from EIU Observatory

The public is invited to view the skies from Eastern Illinois University 's physics observatory starting at 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26.

"Hear about the cosmos," said Jim Conwell, EIU physics professor. "And if it's clear out, look at the Orion Nebula through our 16-inch telescope for the last time until next year."

Even if it's cloudy, the observatory will be open for tours.

The facility houses a state-of-the-art, computer-controlled, 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. A dome can open and rotate to provide views of all parts of the sky.

The building is located in the southwestern corner of campus between O'Brien Stadium and the intramural softball fields.

Those who attend may park their vehicles in the lot north of Wesley United Methodist Church and then walk to the observatory site.

For more information, call the physics department at 581-3220.