We're passionate about Astronomy, Science, and Space ... · Dyer's extensive astronomy library as...
2
We're passionate about Astronomy, Science, and Space Exploration. Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory is a special place of learning tucked high atop one of the tallest peaks around Nashville. The observatory’s mission is to inspire student and public interest in science through experiencing the wonders of astronomy. Annually, over 12,000 children and adults are thrilled as they see the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars firsthand during telescope viewings. Each year Dyer hosts thousands of visitors through school tours, observation nights, scout events and other community programs. These groups have access to Dyer's extensive astronomy library as well as a computer center where a robotic telescope can be controlled. Dr. Carl Seyfert, a Vanderbilt University astronomy professor known for his discovery of a special class of galaxies, was instrumental in the creation of Dyer Observatory in the early 1950s. With initial support and encouragement from the university, Dr. Seyfert convinced over 80 individuals, firms and foundations to donate everything from electrical service, to dynamite, to optics to make Dyer Observatory a reality. What could not be found on the shelves of local businesses however was a dome - specifically one that was 24 feet in diameter and would weigh five tons! Mr. Arthur J. Dyer, owner of the Nashville Bridge Company, not only agreed to build the dome and provide the installation, but was also a generous donor. Mr. Dyer accompanied Dr. Seyfert on field trips to find a suitable home for the observatory. They found it at its current site, which is on nine acres and is 1,131 feet above sea level. Deservedly, the 24-inch telescope housed in the observatory dome is named in Dr. Seyfert's honor as is the observatory for Mr. Dyer, was dedicated in 1953. The Arthur J. Dyer Observatory was placed on The National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior on March 6, 2009. If you visit Dyer Observatory during daylight, be sure to visit the spectacular Star Chamber. It is located just beyond the Observatory House to the left of the observatory. Informational signage is located near the pathway approaching the Star Chamber. The installation consists of a walk-in chamber surrounded by a spiral, galaxy-like formation. The top of the central chamber opens to reveal the sky, and during the daytime, an image of the Sun, clouds, and treetops is projected onto the dish-shaped interior.
Transcript of We're passionate about Astronomy, Science, and Space ... · Dyer's extensive astronomy library as...
We're passionate about Astronomy, Science, and Space Exploration.
Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory is a special place of learning tucked high atop one of the tallest peaks around
Nashville. The observatory’s mission is to inspire student and public interest in science through experiencing the wonders of astronomy. Annually, over 12,000 children
and adults are thrilled as they see the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars firsthand during telescope viewings. Each year Dyer hosts thousands of visitors through
school tours, observation nights, scout events and other community programs. These groups have access to Dyer's extensive astronomy library as well as a computer
center where a robotic telescope can be controlled.
Dr. Carl Seyfert, a Vanderbilt University astronomy professor known for his discovery of a special
class of galaxies, was instrumental in the creation of Dyer Observatory in the early 1950s. With initial support and encouragement from the university, Dr. Seyfert convinced over 80 individuals, firms and foundations to donate everything from electrical service, to dynamite, to optics to make Dyer
Observatory a reality.
What could not be found on the shelves of local businesses however was a dome - specifically one that was 24 feet in diameter and would weigh five tons! Mr.
Arthur J. Dyer, owner of the Nashville Bridge Company, not only agreed to build the dome and provide the installation, but was also a generous donor. Mr. Dyer
accompanied Dr. Seyfert on field trips to find a suitable home for the observatory. They found it at its current site, which is on nine acres and is 1,131 feet above sea
level. Deservedly, the 24-inch telescope housed in the observatory dome is named in Dr. Seyfert's honor as is the observatory for Mr. Dyer, was dedicated in 1953.
The Arthur J. Dyer Observatory was placed on The National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior on March 6, 2009.
If you visit Dyer Observatory during daylight, be sure to
visit the spectacular Star Chamber. It is located just
beyond the Observatory House to the left of the
observatory. Informational signage is located near the
pathway approaching the Star Chamber. The installation
consists of a walk-in chamber surrounded by a spiral,
galaxy-like formation. The top of the central chamber
opens to reveal the sky, and during the daytime, an
image of the Sun, clouds, and treetops is projected onto
the dish-shaped interior.
Address: 1000 Oman Drive
Brentwood, TN 37027
Phone: 615-373-4897
Contact: Lynn McDonald
Oman Drive is 1/2 mile north of the Old Hickory Boulevard intersection with Granny White Pike in
Brentwood.
If you are heading north from Old Hickory, Oman Drive will be to your right, across from the Richland
Country Club golf course. Look for our signs on Granny White Pike.
If you are heading south from Harding Place/Battery Lane, you will pass Otter Creek Road, Radnor Lake
and Granny White Market. Continue further on Granny White until you see the observatory sign.
When coming south on Granny White Pike, Oman Drive will be on the left.
Follow Oman Drive to the very top of the hill, past the High Valley subdivision. There are reflective
stripes on the road leading to Dyer. At the top, you will see our gates.
