Observatory expands options for STEM education

in Northwest Florida.

 

Located in a wooded area of the Northwest Florida State College campus, this project energized the expanding astronomy department when it opened in 2001.  The building features an 18 foot telescope equipped with a digital camera, a partially retractable dome where the telescope is housed, and a classroom to host astronomy and other science classes.  The design of the complex gives visitors a sense of a satellite in orbit revolving around the vertical shaft of the telescope tower.  Also included were an observation deck, classrooms, outdoor public spaces, and a complicated telecommunications tie-in to the campus’ fiber system.