Friends of the University of Illinois Observatory

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Friends of the University of Illinois Observatory

Support the University of Illinois Observatory, catching star light since 1896! The Observatory is a

The Observatory is a National Historic Landmark due to the pioneering work on Dr. Joel Stebbins on the development of photoelectric photometry.

08/07/2026

The second floor has been tuck pointed, the small joints providing a challenge for our experts. The eve under the dome has turned out to be damaged and will need additional work. The chimney was also removed with some bricks crumbling as they were taken down. The rest will be saved for future repairs.

07/23/2026

Another busy week as the renovations continue. Thanks to Berglund contractors especially Suprrintendent Kyle Leonetti, tuckpoint specialist Shawn Lewis and his assistant Giovanni Reyes, and sheet metal specialists Dennis and Dalton Reding.

07/15/2026

This week it is tuck pointing and a mock up of the transit shutter, along with some work on the roof around the dome. The space between the bricks is very narrow and is presenting a challenge!

07/05/2026

While work is underway on the exterior, we are planning the next steps for the interior space. Improved exhibit space, a restored and functional transit room, and a flexible classroom are all being discussed. UIAS member Ben Adkins is helping us with the envisioning by creating these renderings. See the Friend's summer newsletter for more detail. What do you think?

07/04/2026

Happy Independence Day!

We are proud of the contributions made in this Observatory to American history.

“The values of science and the values of democracy are concordant, in many cases indistinguishable. Science thrives on the free exchange of ideas. Its values are antithetical to secrecy. Both encourage unconventional opinion and vigorous debate, adequate reason, coherent argument, and rigorous standards of evidence and honesty."
Carl Sagan, 1996

07/02/2026

The dome has a new look!

06/26/2026

Work is continuing. Paint for the dome and trim has been selected and approved. Consistent with history, the dome will return to being white. Weather permitting, painting could begin next week. Next up includes tuckpointing and soon the transit hatch will be open. The telescope is protected while work on the dome is occurring although the dome remains functional and there are still public open houses.

06/21/2026

Happy Summer Solstice!
Illustration by James Gordon Irving and appearing in Herbert Zim and Robert Baker's "Stars" 1951.

06/04/2026

Work on the dome and roof continues. Our NHL neighbor to the South, Morrow Plots, is also getting some work done.

05/21/2026

Changes happening to our neighbor https://www.facebook.com/share/1VUpaRjAWk/

Address

901 S Mathews Avenue
Urbana, IL
61801

Website

http://observatory.astro.illinois.edu/

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