Built with a generous $500,000 grant from the W.M. Keck Foundation and supported by PLU's Division of Natural Sciences and Department of Physics, the W.M. Keck Observatory has played an important role in the university's physics program for nearly 20 years. The facility features a 16-inch Meade LX200 reflecting telescope, a Santa Barbara Group CCD camera with 5-color filter wheel, and a Celestroon NexImage solar system imager.
What is the observatory used for?
The observatory has bee utilized for a variety of undergraduate research projects over the years. Most recently, PLU physics students used the solar system imager to measure the motion of Jupiter's Great Red Spot and the CCD camera to characterize the gaps in Saturn's rings. Previous undergraduate research projects measured sunspot decay rates and temperatures and cataloged asteroid positions.
How can I see the observatory?
The observatory is open to the public after certain Jazz Under the Stars summer concerts. Additionally, it is possible for small groups and campus organizations to arrange for a tour of the observatory, weather and schedule permitting.
How can students get involved at the observatory?
The PLU Physics Department periodically offers summer research positions that students can apply for. Also, students in PLU's introductory astronomy class (PHYS 110) visit the observatory while enrolled in the course.