Editors’ Note: This feature appears as it was published in the spring 2018 edition of UT Dallas Magazine. Titles or faculty members listed may have changed since that time.
In 1979, a two-story, 900-square foot domed astronomical observatory was constructed on the northwest side of campus.
Housed inside were a 16-inch diameter Newtonian reflector telescope and a 5-inch guide telescope.
The observatory, established by Dr. David Klumpar and Dr. Brian Tinsley, was used for educational purposes and public stargazing events until the mid-80s.
Sky brightness from growth in the North Texas area diluted the quality of the observations, leading to the closing of the facility.
Have UTD memories to share? Email utdallasmagazine@utdallas.edu with your recollections.
