Brooks Astronomical Observatory
Brooks Hall Astronomical Observatory is your gateway to exploring the universe, right from the heart of campus. Named after long-time astronomy professor Kendall P. Brooks, this rooftop observatory has been a part of CMU since 1964 and continues to serve nearly 500 students each year through hands-on, introductory astronomy courses.
At the center of the observatory is a fully automated, computer-controlled 16-inch Cassegrain reflector telescope, capable of high-precision tracking for both imaging and spectroscopic observations. Whether you're collecting data for a class project or simply taking a closer look at the night sky, the telescope’s advanced features allow you to engage deeply with celestial science. Just outside the dome, an observation deck gives you a place to explore the sky using your own eyes or small telescopes, perfect for learning the constellations or leading public demonstrations.
Open house events, held monthly throughout the academic year, give you the chance to share your interest in astronomy with friends, family, and the community, rain or shine. These sessions help create a vibrant connection between campus and the public, while offering students valuable experience in science communication and observation.
Whether you're pursuing physics, curious about the cosmos, or looking for ways to apply your learning outside the classroom, Brooks Hall Observatory offers the tools and support to help you expand your perspective, literally and academically. For details about upcoming open houses, check below or contact the CMU Department of Physics at 989-774-3321.
Open houses
The Brooks Astronomical Observatory will hold public Open House nights once again this semester. The dates are below. Open House nights are free and open to the public. They take place from 8-10 p.m. The Brooks Astronomical Observatory, on top of Brooks Hall. The Open House will take place no matter the weather, but they are far more interesting when we are actually able to observe. When the weather is bad, you can still take a tour of the observatory and an astronomer (in this case, me) will be on hand to answer questions.
Please note that getting to the observatory does involve stairs. There is only one stairwell that will get you to the observatory, and while it is the one nearest the elevators, the elevator only goes as far as the 3rd floor and the observatory entrance is on the 4th floor. Also, there are stairs to get from the entrance into the telescope dome (which is the only room on the 5th floor of Brooks hall!)
- Thursday, February 6, 2025
- Thursday, March 6, 2025
- Thursday, April 3, 2025