Allegheny Observatory

In the City of Allegheny of Pennsylvania, the Allegheny refracting telescope observatory as founded on the 15th of February, 1859. Situated in Riverview Park, the observatory is a part of the University of Pittsburgh. Consequently, the some residents of the city created an astronomy and telescope group, the Allegheny Telescope Association.

Presently, the Allegheny Observatory is recognized as one of the major telescope and research observatories in the world. Originally intended for general public use, the observatory’s refracting telescope and astronomical equipments are currently utilized for astronomical researches as well as for the science requirements of the University’s students.

The refractor telescope and reflecting telescope instruments

The Allegheny observatory has one reflecting telescope and two refracting telescope instruments in use.

Keeler Memorial Reflecting Telescope. Found on the second biggest dome, it was named in home of the observatory’s director, James Keeler. Built by Brashear Optical Company in 1906, the Keeler was known for its study and observations of the sun.

Fitz Clark Refracting Telescope. This 13 inch scope by built in 1861 by Henry Fitz. The second name “Clark” was added after a magnificent repair by Alvan Clark Company. Of the three scopes, the Fitz was the one primarily used for tour groups and star gazing activities.

Thaw refractor telescope. Donated by William Thaw Jr, it is located under the biggest dome of the observatory. Constructed in 1912 also by Brashear Optical Company. The main function of the Thaw scope was photographic – it is one of the most prolific in the world in terms of photographic plates.