Clarence T. Jones Observatory, Chattanooga - Astronomical Observatories on Waymarking.com

Located 4.5 mile east of the UTC campus, the Clarence T. Jones Observatory completed in 1936 was originally intended for the Chattanooga school system. During WWII it was leased to UTC for 99 years at the cost of one dollar.


Photo from UTC taken 1936

Today the observatory telescope has been rendered almost useless. Even with modern equipment installed, the night sky can't compete with the light from surrounding cities and area security lights. The telescope is still used in programs that include pictures and a planetarium show. At the time of this writing, the observatory is closed for the season. You can get a schedule by visiting their web page. It is open to the public and admission is free! Cords given are from the parking area. A trail leads up to the observatory, please see the web page for handicap access located behind the building.

Observatory Purpose: Research Optical / Infrared Telescopes?: Yes Radio Telescopes?: No Open to the Public?: Yes Is this a Club Observatory?: No Public Viewing Allowed?: Yes Active Observatory?: Active Number of Telescopes or Antennas: 1 Site URL: [Web Link] Solar Telescopes?: Not listed Year Dedicated or Opened: Not Listed Altitude (meters): Not Listed

Visit Instructions:
Note the time of day of your visit, and your own photo of your favorite part of the observatory. This might be the view from the observatory, picture of your favorite building or favorite exhibit. (Be mindful of flash photography rules!)

If you participated in an observing session, let everyone know what you saw!

Recent Visits/Logs:

Date Logged Log User Rating   05/13/2008 NickTnReb visited it

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