Chasing Stars in the City Lights with Jessica Dowell

How does an observatory thrive amidst urban lights?

Charting the CourseExplore the challenges and triumphs of the University of New Mexico Observatory, nestled in the heart of Albuquerque. Observatory Director Jessica Dowell and her husband, Jayce Dowell discuss the observatory's history, outreach efforts, and the quest for a darker sky site.

"The goal is to give them the experience I had as an undergrad, which inspired me to be an astronomer." - Jessica Dowell

Waypoints00:02:53 - The Ritual: Sharing a Drink

00:11:08 - Challenges of Light Pollution and City Expansion

00:22:20 - Visual Astronomy and Public Outreach

00:31:04 - Dreams for the Observatory

00:38:00 - Public Reactions to Observing Nights

00:45:30 - Optical Telescopes and Research Instruments

00:52:00 - Historical Context and Future Plans

CurrentsThe observatory's 72-year-old building faces encroaching city lights and infrastructure.Friday night open houses engage the public and students with telescopes and starry skies.Efforts to restore a 26-inch telescope for research and educational purposes.Balancing accessibility and research goals in a changing urban landscape.The importance of community outreach and fundraising for the observatory's future.

Where the River Took UsEncroaching city lightsPublic outreach and educationRestoration of old telescopesDark sky sitesADA accessibilityRadio astronomy vs. optical astronomy