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Observatory

About the Jackson Middle School Observatory

The Anoka-Hennepin School District is one of a few in the nation to have its own observatory. Teachers and students from all grade levels are able to utilize this facility to reinforce their curriculum. Activities also include outreach to public groups, other schools and local colleges and universities.

The dome, which houses the telescope, is fully rotational with a wide opening and is operated by remote control. The opening has two panels. The upper panel slides up and over the top of the dome and the lower panel tilts down to a level position.

See how the Jackson Middle School Observatory was constructed

The Jackson Middle School Observatory Dedication

Ronald Schmit

Observatory Coordinator
Jackson Middle School - A Specialty School for Math and Science

Observatory events

Join us at the JMS observatory to look at the Moon, planets, stars, constellations, and anything else we can find in space. Public viewings will be held at least twice each month, if clear, along with special event nights when something of interest is happening in the sky above.

Each night starts with a little introduction to the sky. We will fire up our projectors to give you a guided tour of the events for the month and even teach you to use a star map that you can take home to continue your exploration. Next, we'll head outside for a tour of the constellations, pointing out the North Star and the seasonal highlights overhead. Finally, we will head up to the dome and our 14-inch telescope for an up-close tour of the cosmos. Use your phone to capture your very own souvenir photo of the Moon. There is just so much to see!

When visiting the observatory on public nights, do not come through the school.

Directions to the parking lot

Park in the north lot, south of 111th Avenue N, on Yates Avenue N.

Please Note: Weather is always an issue! If it is cloudy or raining, viewings may be canceled. Check the website before coming. Dress for the weather. The temperature of the dome is like that of the outdoors. Please check this website at 6:00 p.m. on viewing dates to make sure viewing has not been canceled.

More information about the observatory

Astronomy and space resources

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Observatory classroom