Students take a closer look at Jupiter and its moons through the observatory's 16" telescope. Photo: Thomas Carroll.
Strawbridge Observatory & Public Observing
The Strawbridge Observatory at Haverford College houses 12-inch and 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes which are actively used by students in Haverford astronomy classes. The telescopes are also periodically made available for public use with teaching assistants and/or professors present to provide assistance and background information about what is being viewed.
Weather
Note The telescopes are only used when it is clear, and the domes are not opened when it is cloudy.
If the weather is in doubt, your best option is to email strawbridge.observing@gmail.com and ask whether observing will take place.
Groups
If you would like to bring a group to any of our events, please contact us early in the year to see if your group can be accommodated.
Contact Winn Koster and Reilly Milburn at strawbridge.observing@gmail.com for more information.
Mailing List
Would you like to sign up for our email list? Please fill out this form. We would love to hear from you!
Public Observing Schedule & Directions
Friday, February 23, 2018
7:30 p.m. This event takes place weather permitting. There will be a student talk, hands-on activities, and telescope observing. Student volunteers will be present to answer astronomy questions.
Rain Date: Friday, March 2
Friday, March 30, 2018
8:00 p.m. This event takes place weather permitting. There will be a student talk, hands-on activities, and telescope observing. Student volunteers will be present to answer astronomy questions.
Rain Date: Friday, April 6
Friday, April 20, 2018
8:00 p.m. This event takes place rain or shine. There will be a student talk, hands-on activities, and telescope observing. Student volunteers will be present to answer astronomy questions. This event is being held as part of the Citywide Star Party, hosted by the Philadelphia Science Festival.
Directions
The Strawbridge Observatory is located on Walton Road, just off College Avenue between Haverford Road and Lancaster Ave.