The St. Louis Astronomical Society ("SLAS") has partnered with Jefferson College in Hillsboro, Missouri to develop an astronomical observatory on the campus of the college. The observatory is designed to engage the community to learn more about the science of astronomy and physics. Regular stargazing and solar viewing events for the general public are hosted by the college staff and members of SLAS. A patio viewing area is open for 24/7 access by amateur astronomers and enthusiasts to explore the night sky and our closest star, the Sun. Well-publicized astronomical events in the media such as eclipses, transits, comets and meteor showers are expected to draw large audiences.

The observatory is being built in phases with implementation determined by available funding.

The first phase of the observatory was officially opened on September 12, 2021, with a ribbon cutting ceremony. This phase includes an "observatory dome” owned by SLAS that houses a permanently mounted 16-inch telescope with a motorized dome, and “pads” with electric hookup for the public and amateur astronomers to use their personal equipment. The observatory features several observatory buildings equipped with ready-to-use telescopes of sufficient aperture (light gathering ability) to allow for college level research. Educators and students of K-12 schools are encouraged to make use of the observatory for educational projects. Members of the St. Louis Astronomical Society are able to use the observatory to host public and private events. Port-a-potties are available for use by the public until permanent restrooms can be funded.

Future construction plans include a wall designed to shield vehicle headlights, additional buildings large enough to house telescopes ranging up to 30” in aperture and host 10-15 visitors at a time, telescopes mounted in each building, and restroom facilities. Project funds will be raised from public donations, grants, and corporate sponsors.

Help us fund our next expansion phase. Commemorative Meteorite Packages are available for purchase.

• Jefferson College Observatory website – https://www.jeffco.edu/Observatory

• Jefferson College Observatory Facebook - www.facebook.com/JCObservatory

In conjunction with the development of this observatory, the Board and membership of SLAS purchased from the Jim Moody Family a Sirius Observatory, Meade 16” LX200GPS telescope, mount and pier, electronic focuser and associated equipment for $15,000. An additional $1,000 was set aside for necessary expenditures related to moving and making operational the observatory on campus. The purchased observatory will remain SLAS property and responsibility and will be hosted on the campus of Jefferson College. Members have full access and shared usage rights to the observatory