UCI Observatory

The UCI Observatory operated by the Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of California, Irvine was demolished in 2014, to make way for new faculty housing. It was used for educational purposes in classes and served as a great venue for K-12 school field-trips and popular Visitor Nights at the Observatory. We are still identifying a site for a new Observatory, but our Astronomy Outreach Program still brings portable telescopes and hands-on activities to students. Email Professor Tammy Smecker-Hane or look here for more info.

News

Lunar Eclipse of Jan 31, 2018 taken by Professor Aaron Barth
Here's a great shot of the Super Blue Blood Moon during the total lunar eclipse seen from UCI on Jan 31, 2018, taken by Professor Aaron Barth. Read the following article...
Solar Eclipse at UCI
Over 2,000 people came to UCI to view the solar eclipse. See the KTLA Channel 5 report here.

Friends of the UCI Observatory

A Friends of the UCI Observatory membership offers individuals interested in astronomy and physics the opportunity to become more involved with the Observatory and UCI’s astrophysicists. With the financial support provided by the Friends of the UCI Observatory, we will be able to continue and expand Observatory's events and actvities for the general public.

  • Star Patron - $50 - $100
     
  • Supernova Patron - $500
     
  • Galaxy Patron - $1,000
     
  • Big Bang Patron - $5,000