WARTBURG PLATTE OBSERVATORY
Location: 42° 44' 01" N   92° 29' 31" W
IAU  Observatory H42

The Wartburg Platte Observatory is owned and operated by Wartburg College through the generous contributions of Steve Platte ('69). The Observatory is for the primary use of the College for introductory Astronomy and Astrophysics classes and community outreach.

For the latest in Observatory updates, follow the Wartburg College Observatory Page on Facebook!

You can get on our mailing list: email 'observatory' at the college.


Wartburg Nights Flyer and map

Observatory hours dependent on weather conditions.  Consult Clear Sky Clock & local weather for information.  Note that if temperature is below 5° or if wind speed is above 15mph observations will be canceled.
CHECK FOR THE RED OBSERVATORY LIGHT!

Schedule for PHY170 astronomy classes:

The Observatory is open for PHY170 observation
from 8:00-10:00pm Mondays and Wednesdays during the Fall and Winter Semesters.

Latest Image:

M008Giant molecular cloud/starforming region M8 (the Lagoon Nebula)
as seen with the 14"SCT and SBIG 1001 camera, 60s exposure.

Research Projects:

Wartburg physics majors are currently working on minor planet astrometry.  This project aims to locate and track minor planets (asteroids) in order to refine their orbits. More information coming soon!

Images of the Observatory:

Student Erin Benoy with the Platte TelescopeStudent Erin Benoy studying asteroids with the Platte Telescope on an 8°F winter evening.

Observatory Contact Information:

Wartburg Platte Observatory is owned and operated by Wartburg College through the generous contributions of Steve Platte ('69).  The Observatory is for the primary use of the College for introductory Astronomy and Astrophysics classes.
Are you interested in the bringing your high school or grade school class, scouting or other community group to the observatory?  Shows and Open Houses are available on a limited basis.  Call for scheduling.
Charles Figura
SCI 356
100 Wartburg Blvd. NW
Waverly, IA 50677
Phone: (319) 352-8373
Fax: (319) 352-8606
email: charles.figura@wartburg.edu

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