Jack C. Davis Observatory

Summary

The Jack C. Davis Observatory is an astronomical observatory at Western Nevada College in Carson City, Nevada. The facility has three telescopes: two 0.4 m (16 in) reflecting telescopes and one 0.25 m (9.8 in) reflector. One telescope is equipped with a spectrograph. Outside the building, a 0.12 m (4.7 in) refractor has been installed under a robotic dome and is used for studying sunspots. All of the telescopes are equipped with cameras, and are connected to the Internet so large groups can access images from remote locations.[1]

Jack C. Davis Observatory
OrganizationWestern Nevada College
Observatory codeCarson City, Nevada
LocationNevada, US
Coordinates39°11′09″N 119°47′47″W / 39.1857°N 119.7964°W / 39.1857; -119.7964
Altitude1,534 meters (5,033 ft)
Established2003 (2003)
WebsiteJack C. Davis Observatory
Jack C. Davis Observatory is located in the United States
Jack C. Davis Observatory
Location of Jack C. Davis Observatory

A Campbell Scientific research-grade weather station is installed outside the observatory. The solar-powered instrument collects weather data and sends it to the Desert Research Institute in Reno, Nevada for analysis and on-line publication. The Planetary Walkway connects the main campus with the observatory. Lining the walkway are massive sandstone monuments created by artistic inmates from the Nevada State Prison at the prison's old quarry. The stones feature carved images of the planets, along with information about the planet and a dedication to the donors.

The Western Nevada Astronomical Society is an observing group affiliated with Western Nevada College and the Jack C. Davis Observatory. The WNAS is dedicated to supporting the astronomical community through education, social functions, and service.[2]

See also edit

References edit

  1. ^ Snyder, L.F. (May 2003). "WNCC Observatory". The Society for Astronomical Sciences 22nd Annual Symposium on Telescope Science. 22. Society for Astronomical Sciences: 35. Bibcode:2003SASS...22...35S.
  2. ^ "About WNAS". Western Nevada Astronomical Society. Retrieved 2012-01-15.

External links edit

  • Jack C. Davis Observatory
  • Western Nevada College
  • Western Nevada Astronomical Society