University of Nebraska Lincoln UNL Behlen Observatory
The observatory’s new 30-inch telescope features a Cassegrain optical system with an interchangeable spectograph, used for measuring the spectrum of stellar or galactic objects, and camera. Formal dedication of the facility took place on April 7, 1973.
Although the project priority contributes to academic research in astronomy and physics, from time to time the general public has the opportunity to tour and interact with the telescope for educational purposes.
It is important for an astronomer to have a clear view of the sky from an Earth surface based telescope. Cloud cover often interferes with night sky viewing in the Midwestern United States. Astronomers use a Clear Sky Chart CSC to assist in a forecast for the likelihood of an acceptable stellar viewing. The Clear Sky Chart forecast takes variables into account such as cloud cover, transparency, seeing, darkness, wind, humidity and temperature.
