I was clicking through the latest version of EMU FOCUS (some good stuff in there), when I found this curious photo/story that I thought might be of interest since there used to be some astronomy club members around here once upon a time:
To quote the story/caption:
NEW TELESCOPE: Members of Eastern Michigan University’s Astronomy Club recently presented EMU President Susan Martin (standing, middle) with the new University House telescope. The telescope is 6 inches in diameter, sports a Newtonian/Dobsonian design and has superb optics. It sports a deep black tube, varnished woodwork, brass handles and EMU theme decals. The telescope was hand-constructed and donated by members of the EMU Astronomy Club. Excellent views of the moon, planets and stars await curious guests at University House.
Snazzy telescope. So, is this at the president’s house, or is it more accessible/on campus? And is Martin a star enthusiast?
To answer those questions: The scope is kept at the house. It was noted by club members that the Univ House has a nice grand piano to entertain guests, why not a nice telescope fitting of the residence? It can be easily set up on the back patio any nice clear night for views of the moon and planets congering up conversation of a different sort. There are plenty of other scopes available on campus for the public to look through at Sherzer Observatory (see http://www.physics.emich.edu/sherzer/index.htm ) Finally, the President will be a star enthusiast once she sees the moon through that scope! Anyone will… It has excellent optics.
I’ll also add this telescope was hand built by members of the club using donated parts. It is a fine lil’ device and should provide many years of use and “OOOOO’s and Ahhhhh’s” To echo Norb Vance: EMU’s Sherzer Observatory has a fine arsenal of portable and not-so-portable telescopes and has maintained a mission of access for students and community outreach. The faculty abd staff of the Physics and Astronomy Department as well as many fine student volunteers; alumni and friends maintain open observing sessions once or twice a week. The only think we struggle with is this darn Michigan weather. So as EMU Talk contributor Mike says “if you see the dome open, day or night, wander on up and check it out.” A trip to Sherzer Observatory is a must for anyone on or near Eastern’s Campus!
Surely it will be more effective than John Fallon’s rear view mirror.
This is a terrific thing for UHouse. And for anyone who’s not been there, the Sherzer Observatory is hands down the most distinctive physical space on campus: Closer to the heavens than most of Ypsilanti and with spectacular views of the campus, town, and sky.
Bravo to the always active Astronomy Club!