If you’ve never seen the Observatory Park’s Nassau Astronomical Observing Station, also known as the “old Case observatory”, now’s your chance! Tour the Nassau Observing Station on Fridays, February 13 & 27, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Observatory Park, 10610 Clay Street, Montville Twp.
Visitors will head over to the old facility in two groups. Parking at Nassau is limited to six vehicles, so visitors may make the quarter-mile journey or enjoy a “ferry ride” in a Geauga Park District van.
Once there, explore the laboratory, living quarters, observing floor and telescope. Also, learn about past research conducted at Nassau and future plans for its use in education and public exhibition per “In the future, this room will be…” displays in each room.
Meanwhile, the group back at Observatory Park will learn about the history of the Nassau Astronomical Observing Station, its sister observatories in East Cleveland and Arizona, and J.J. Nassau himself. While enjoying warm beverage refreshments, they also find out about the original home of the Nassau telescope and the ultimate fate of Case’s observatory on Taylor Road.
The groups will swap places at 8 p.m.
Since the facility is not yet restored, the observing floor/telescope can only be accessed via a steep staircase at this time. However, the ground floor, including the former laboratory and living space, are partially wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Registration is required. To register, visit the Geauga Park District website or call 440-286-9516 for these special behind-the-scenes opportunities to visit the facility “as it was” before Geauga Park District’s renovation plans get underway – Due to space restrictions, participation is limited to 30 people per session, so reserve your spot soon!
For more information on the Geauga Park District, check them out online on their website, Facebook page, Twitter, and YouTube.
This story is brought to you by the Geauga Park District
