Great Basin Observatory Reaches for the Stars

Photo by project manager Paul Gardner of Observatory Systems. December is the time of starry, clear, cold skies in Nevada. I am pleased to share this update from the Great Basin Observatory in the Great Basin National Park. The Community Foundation manages the Great Basin Observatory Fund. “Construction was completed this summer, and the facility was dedicated on August 25, 2016, the centennial of the National Park Service. The Great Basin Observatory is the first research -grade astronomical observatory located in a national park. The 28-inch telescope is configured to be remotely operated, which enables researchers, educators, and students to access the telescope from wherever they may be. Our four partner universities (University of Nevada, Reno; Western Nevada College; Southern Utah University; and Concordia University) are already using the facility and students are planning their research projects. We are thrilled to have reached our goal of building the GBO, and are now focused on inspiring the next generation of scientists and stargazers.  Our outreach and education program, 'Reach for the Stars.' hopes to connect researchers, educators, students, and visitors to the Great Basion Observatory and to the Great Basin National Park's incredible night skies.  We invite you to follow our progress."