Physics
Observatory
The CWU Observatory is a feature of Discovery Hall operated by the CWU Physics Department. Although it is a part of Discovery Hall, the observatory is mounted on a tower that is vibrationally isolated from the building, and is only accessible from the roof of Discovery. The observatory provides research opportunities (PHYS 495) and hands-on training (PHYS 201) for undergraduate students, as well as observing experiences for the general public.
The CWU Astronomy Club hosts star parties that are open to the public. Check the CWU Astronomy Club Instagram for information on upcoming events: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJsXLQjSH6h. Or contact physics@cwu.edu to find out more information.
Students interested in becoming involved in astronomy research should visit the Observatory Research page.
Latitude and Longitude:
47.0068° N, 120.5360° W
Altitude of observatory:
480 meters
Directions and parking information:
Parking lot H6 is the recommended parking lot to use for visiting Discovery Hall on weekends or after 4:30pm on weekdays. Most visits start at the Lydig Planetarium (indicated by a blue star on the map).
Research Telescope:
The ACE 0.6-meter telescope was installed on the roof of the Science II building in 2017. The telescope has an FLI 4240 Proline CCD and will eventually have a spectrograph.
CWU News
CWU Trustees to meet in Ellensburg May 21-22
May 14, 2026 by Marketing and Communications
Senior BFA exhibition explores mental health, trans experience
May 13, 2026 by Marketing and Communications