The Ithaca College Naked-Eye Observatory is a proposed integrative outdoor educational facility that we are designing for visitors to learn about the stars and our sky without the aid of telescopes or other modern devices. For some visitors our observatory may conjure images of Stonehenge in Great Britain, Tiwanaku in Bolivia, or Teotihuacan in Mexico. In fact the Ithaca College Naked-Eye Observatory is inspired by all of these ancient celestial observatories and the cultures who devised and used them. By visiting our facility you can learn about these cultures, view the stars and planets in our sky with your own eyes, and also see images captured during special open house nights by the Ithaca College Clinton B. Ford Observatory’s 16” telescope.
The Proposed Ithaca College Naked-Eye Observatory
Key Features of the Project
A. Monoliths guide visitors to observe the sky using only their eyes. B. During scheduled open house nights smaller diameter telescopes let visitors see astronomical objects up close. C. The amphitheater allows visitors to see live images from the Clinton B. Ford 24” Telescopic Observatory during special open houses. D. Benches allow visitors to use the space for non astronomical reasons. E. A former parking lot is now green space in the center of campus. F. We hope that the IC Naked-Eye Observatory will be connected to the Sagen Planet walk. G. Access to loading docks and emergency vehicles is preserved. H. Emerson Suites has a prime view of the facility. I. Campus tours will pass through the facility.
Description of the Project
Description of the Project -
Project_Overview_1.pdf (651.58 KB)