The unique and beautiful
Robert Brownlee Observatory
Description
and functions: Diameter:
22'.0", height 18', weight 3,000 lbs.
This 22'.0" fiberglass observatory is intended for
professional scientific application. It is extremely detailed and
functional for multi-applications with all the professional
requirements suited for research or institutional use. It is
constructed with two complete entry doors, illuminated exit
signs, handicap access, in accordance with Federal guidelines,
solar powered dome rotation and shutter opening,
“guest” 20amp AC charger and electrical power panel.
Dome rotation is effortless with zero dB noise inside the
observatory. It has no exposed mechanics, or driving members, in
accordance with OSHA standards. The observatory is alarmed for
both security and fire, including a pull down alarm. Inside the
observatory is a PA system, a vault for accessories, desk,
computers and a 16" Schmidt Cassegrain Telescope with a
searchable GOTO system. Additionally it has a weather monitor,
seating for participants and is wired for telephone, video output
and intercom service. A small heater keeps the inside air
temperaturejust above freezing in the winter months. Inside
lighting is blue in color to protect night vision, while the
independent outside lighting system is both blue and white light
triggered by photocell at sunset.
CLICK
HERE FOR TELESCOPE INFO.
Click HERE for inside photo of observatory
Click here for observatory construction photos - page 1
THE
PURPOSE :
The primary purpose of the observatory is to sustain an
innovative approach to "interpretative science". MSAS
is committed to provide quality science education to grades K-12
and the general public. With a pragmatic curriculum that
encompasses three components of activity including seeing,
hearing and doing the observatory will facilitate quality
understanding through personal experience. This state-of-the-art
teaching tool is the best kind of hands-on equipment that can be
used in the instruction of multi-task science learning.
PROBLEMS
AND ISSUES THE PROJECT WILL ADDRESS:
In an era in which fascinating as well as important new
astronomical information is being discovered daily, linking
communication between lay persons and the scientific community is
the sine qua non. Our objective is to promote the interest of the
lay person to participate in science, including the opportunities
to practice it (as investigators), as well as to teach it (as
instructors) and finally, to control (as administrators) the
direction science takes as well as its accessibility to those
with the enthusiasm to do it. We convey the importance and
relevance of science to people of many different socioeconomic
and age levels, without being patronizing and without
oversimplification.
Current and future generations are faced with obstacles that are
environmental, chemical, biological, and nuclear in content. Even
some obstacles that are simply unforeseen right now. Science
understanding by individuals inside and outside the scientific
community produces an informed population yielding assertive
problematic identification of these obstacles, and accelerated
solutions.
At Astronomy Village educational programs are conducted by
professionals from the industry and professionally trained
non-industry professionals who contribute personal enthusiasm and
inspiration to a curriculum which stresses hearing, seeing and
applying scientific concepts. Understanding the significance of
science in our daily lives and realizing broader application
breed substantial enthusiasm for the subject. Our programs are
creative and produce “scientific interpretation” linked
with analytical thinking that responds to the fluid problems of
applicable science and society. Our nomos of science include a
factor to demystify the knowledge and technology for a young
workforce that must be prepared to deal with state-of-the-art
technologies and interdisciplinary approaches to face the
challenges of the future.
For more information on how you can participate CLICK HERE