The SSU Observatory (SSUO) has served students and the department efficiently and effectively since its construction in 1976. In the early days students obtained photographic images using astrographic cameras and did single channel UBV photoelectric photometry. Now the observatory has matured and students use a computer-controlled telescope to obtain CCD images of active galaxies, search for new variable stars, and search for apsidal motion in massive binary star systems. Of course, students also find time to obtain images of nebulae and other deep sky objects that inspire the imagination. In addition, a CCD spectrometer system is being developed by students Tiffany Borders and Ashley Wiren with assistance from Dr. Enrique Izaguirre. Soon students will be able to obtain spectra of bright stars and nebulae. Furthermore, the Observatory is scheduled to obtain a high bandwidth network connection which should enable video streaming of images from the Observatory to the campus and to the internet. Yes, the Observatory has matured!

Unfortunately, the Observatory’s “progress clock” is ticking. It is time for SSUO to have an offspring. If you are on campus you have probably seen the extensive construction taking place in the fields to the west of the stadium area where the Observatory is located. This construction site is to become a three-story apartment complex for 650 students. The first phase of construction is scheduled to be complete by Fall 2003. Obviously, this means that the Observatory will effectively become unuseable for research because of the exterior lighting that will accompany the new housing complex. It really is not possible to do observational astronomy next to a parking lot. Yes, the clock is ticking, and SSUO will need to spawn a new place for students to get practical experience in research-level observational astronomy and astrophysics.

The Department has established a committee to explore various options and to develop a plan to provide students with appropriate hands-on experience with astronomical instrumentation and techniques. We are currently considering nearby locations for a remote observatory with a half-meter to one-meter class telescope. The telescope and all instrumentation would be computer-controlled and operated from campus. An internet connection should be available to allow downloading of the data obtained.

The establishment of such a facility will require external funding, and a fundraising campaign will be established in the near future. If you have suggestions or ideas that could support the establishment of a remote SSU Observatory please contact me. If you are interested in the astronomy programs at SSU, we need your help.