With an upcoming total solar eclipse sparking excitement across the country, there’s no better time to visit, learn, and view the immensity of the night skies at Central Methodist University’s historic Morrison Observatory.
The last two weekends of July, the Observatory will be open to the general public. Free guided sessions will take place from 9 to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, July 21 and 22, as well as Friday and Saturday, July 28 and 29, according to Observatory director Dr. Kendal Clark.
The Observatory, in its 142nd year, features a 12¼-inch Clark refractor and a 10-inch reflecting telescope.
Clark will conduct the viewing sessions, provide tours and comment on historical highlights of the facility. Visitors will be able to use the telescopes for viewing, weather permitting.
The Observatory is located at 504 Park Road in northwestern Fayette (65248), across from the Fayette City Park and swimming pool. Exit west on Besgrove Street from the intersection of Highways 5 and 240 and go approximately two blocks to Park Road and turn left; the observatory is on the right a short distance from the turn.
For additional information about the observatory, viewing sessions or directions, contact Clark at kwclark@centralmethodist.edu, or call 660-248-6383.
