Powell Observatory

Built in 1984 by society members, the observatory is located about 25 miles South of Kansas City in Lewis-Young Park, just North of Louisburg, KS. At this location, skies are much darker than in the city. The observatory has one of the largest telescopes open to the public in a five-state area - the Ruisinger Telescope, a Newtonian reflector with a 30" diameter mirror. In addition, the observatory has other telescopes available for public viewing. The observatory is open to the public Saturday nights, May through October and for special astronomical events. Public programs include an educational presentation on an interesting astronomy topic, a tour of the night sky and viewing through the telescopes (weather permitting). The Astronomical Society of Kansas City provides a community to support education and outreach to the greater Kansas City area, observing and research opportunities for members and guests, and resources for all who are interested in astronomy and allied sciences. Since 1924, the ASKC has grown from a small group of amateur astronomers to one of the largest astronomical societies in the country, with nearly 400 members. Although there are a few professional astronomers among us, most members are amateur astronomers from widely diverse backgrounds with a unifying interest in observing and discovering more about our universe.