Delta opens high-tech observatory on University Center campus
By Onnie Stone
Tied for the largest publicly accessible observatory in Michigan, the Delta College Observatory is an exciting addition to Delta’s astronomy department.
“The CDK700 Telescope is incredible” says Aurelian Balan, professor of physics and astronomy at Delta College.
The observatory is equipped with the CDK700 Telescope System. The telescope is named for its 700 millimeter aperture–which is exceptionally large by telescope standards.
Nestled near the athletic fields on the West side of campus, the dome is hidden from light pollution.
With this $195,000 telescope system, observers can explore the cosmos with exceptional clarity and minimal distortion, making it a top choice for serious astronomers.
“We’re hoping to offer monthly open houses,” Balan says.
Delta’s Observatory offers the surrounding community a unique opportunity to see space like never before. Anyone can participate in this experience; the eyepiece is mounted on a periscope, allowing observers to comfortably view the night sky even from a wheelchair.
