Brooks Astronomical Observatory

Explore the universe at CMU’s Brooks Astronomical Observatory

The Brooks Astronomical Observatory at Central Michigan University is your gateway to discovering the night sky, right from campus. Located atop Brooks Hall and named after long-time astronomy professor Kendall P. Brooks, this historic rooftop observatory has been part of CMU since 1964 and supports hundreds of students each year in hands-on introductory astronomy courses.

State-of-the-art telescope for astronomy students

At the heart of the observatory is a fully automated, computer-controlled 16-inch Cassegrain reflector telescope, built for high-precision tracking, imaging, and spectroscopic observations. Whether you're gathering data for a lab assignment or taking your first close-up look at the Moon, planets, star clusters, or nebulae, this telescope gives you direct access to professional-level astronomical tools.

Observation deck for night sky viewing

Just outside the dome, the observatory’s open-air observation deck provides space to explore the sky with the naked eye or small telescopes. It’s an ideal spot for learning constellations, practicing sky navigation, or hosting demonstrations for classmates and visitors.

Whether you're studying physics, pursuing an interest in astrophysics, or simply love watching the skies, the Brooks Hall Observatory offers the tools, training, and support to expand your view of the universe, both academically and literally.

For information about upcoming open houses, see the schedule below or contact the CMU Department of Physics at 989-774-3321.

A distant view of Brooks Hall Astronomical Observatory during the daytime.

Open houses

This semester, the Brooks Astronomical Observatory is once again opening its doors for a series of public Open House nights, and you’re invited. Whether you’re a future CMU student curious about what hands-on astronomy looks like, a lifelong stargazer, or simply someone who enjoys a clear night sky, these events offer a chance to explore the universe from right here on campus.

From 8–10 p.m., the rooftop observatory atop Brooks Hall comes alive as visitors step inside the telescope dome, walk out onto the observation deck, and meet the astronomers who bring the night sky to life. Open House nights are free and open to everyone, and they’re held regardless of weather conditions. On clear nights, you’ll have the chance to look through the 16-inch telescope and observe the Moon, planets, star clusters, and more. When clouds roll in, you can still tour the observatory, learn how the telescope works, and get answers to all your astronomy questions from the faculty member hosting the event.

Before you visit, please be aware that reaching the observatory requires climbing stairs. While Brooks Hall has an elevator to the 3rd floor, the observatory entrance is on the 4th floor, and additional stairs lead from the entrance up into the telescope dome on the 5th floor—the highest point in the building.

Gather your friends, bundle up for a night under the stars, and come see what the universe looks like from CMU’s rooftop observatory. Dates for this semester’s Open Houses are listed below, and we look forward to welcoming you.

Open house dates:

  • Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025
  • Monday, September 29, 2025
  • Thursday, October 30, 2025
  • Monday, December 1, 2025