Moore Observatory is a research and advanced teaching facility of the University of Louisville. We can occasionally offer tours for small groups, but due to limited staff and time it is not possible to do this on a regular basis.

The observatory operates four instruments at its Brownsboro site, and a companion telescope at Mt. Kent near Toowoomba, Australia. The 24-inch Ritchie Chretien telescope is a research instrument used by faculty and graduate students involved in studies of the optical properties of the atmosphere in the near infrared, and the development of imaging and spectroscopic technology. A Wide Field Spectral Imager is also used for graduate student research work on the the dust content of galactic nebulae, and occasionally for bright comet spectroscopy.

The 20-inch Corrected Dall-Kirkham telescopes at Moore Observatory and at Mt. Kent are collaboratively operated by the University of Louisville and the University of Southern Queensland, primarily for education, public astronomy outreach, and target of opportunity research. These telescopes are interfaced to Internet2, and are operated remotely by students from Kentucky schools, undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Louisville, and students of the University of Southern Queensland.

A 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain is available for hands-on CCD imaging and photometry by interested students, trained visitors, and guests.

Other facilities are also available on Belknap Campus. If you have questions, send email to Professor Kielkopf.