Aldrich Astronomical Observatory

AAS Observatory before roofing installed

We opened our new astronomical observatory in the fall of 2016—filling the void left after the demolition of our old astronomical observatory at the Ecotarium. Our observatory looks like a small shed sporting a roof that rolls off exposing the entire sky. Its goal is to serve members, scouts undertaking astronomy badges, students, and the public (through approved and scheduled outreach programs). You can help us sustain our vision with a small gift to the Observatory Fund through our donation page.

Aldrich Observatory circa 1961

We love to give kids and adults a chance to see comets, planets, galaxies, and nebula with their own eyes. While most observatories available for public outreach in Massachusetts are located on the rooftops of buildings, hindered by heat dissipation and light pollution, our observatory is located in a four acre field—mowed frequently by our Facilities Manager, Bob Peloquin, and volunteers—far from the light polluted skies of the cities allowing us to maximize the potential of these telescopes.

AAS Observatory Location. Dark sky data courtesy of Earth Observation Group, NOAA National Geophysical Data Center.

Even if you can’t tell the difference between the Little Dipper and Orion, now is the perfect time to break out of your little world and introduce your kids to the universe.— Michelle Abrams, Boston Parents Paper