We are very fortunate to have Chamberlin Observatory located in our neighborhood Observatory Park.

Location

Chamberlin Observatory
2930 East Warren Avenue
Denver, Colorado 80210
Information line: 303-871-5172

History

Chamberlin Observatory is an astronomical observatory owned and operated by the University of Denver. It is named for Humphrey B. Chamberlin, a Denver real estate magnate who pledged $50,000 in 1888 to build and equip the facility.

The observatory building was designed by Robert S. Roeschlaub (noted Denver architect whose other works include Trinity United Methodist Church in downtown Denver and the Central City Opera House). The astronomical aspects and functions were designed by Professor Herbert Alonzo Howe after he visited many observatories in the east. It was modeled after the Goodsell Observatory at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, and constructed from rusticated red sandstone blocks. The Romanesque structure includes a central rotunda and domed roof. Construction began in 1890.

The 20-inch lens for the observatory’s main refracting telescope was made by Alvan Clark & Sons, with the mount built by George Nicholas Saegmuller. The telescope opened in 1894. Because its location has become a large metropolitan area, light pollution limits its use in scientific research.

Chamberlin Observatory is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was renovated inside and out during 2008 by the University of Denver with the support of a Historic Colorado grant, the Observatory Park community, and the Denver Astronomical Society.

Public Events at the Observatory

The Denver Astronomical Society hosts several public outreach events at the observatory every month.