Works Education List of Projects

Astro-Photography Observatory

Prospect High School

Project Outline

  • Astronomical Observatory as part of new Science Education Facility
  • State-of-the-Art Digital Astrophotography Platform
  • Web-based robotic control of Dome, Telescope and Astrophotography equipment
  • Pre-manufactured Fiberglass Dome by Sirius Observatories

When we presented the concept for a rooftop Astronomical Observatory to the Campbell Union High School District, it was received with great excitement. Because of CUHSD's educational vision, we were able to work with them to bring this exciting opportunity to life.

This project provides students with educational opportunities not typically available to them, or in fact to most high school students throughout the world.

In using this observatory, students and teachers have opportunities to learn not only about astronomy but also physics, chemistry, mathematics, art, photography and computer science. We expect that creative teachers will even find ways to use the observatory to teach poetry or social sciences.

This project posed many challenges that we are proud to have met. These challenges included coordinating the delivery and installation of a pre-manufactured dome from Australia, coordinating the integration and installation of the telescope, astrophotography and computer equipment, and finally providing training to educators on the use of this high tech facility.

The ultimate payoff for us in guiding this effort is the joy of seeing the facility put to use by students. We hope that students needing a challenge are challenged and that students needing direction will find direction because of opportunities provide by this observatory.

See Also

Article from AIA San Mateo newsletter.

Link to article in the Campbell Reporter

Website of our astrophotography consultant, Richard Bennion

Website of Sirius Observatories

Because of our commitment to education, we provided significant pro-bono services in support of the project, from feasibility and design through agency coordination, construction and finally implementation and training.