Manastash Ridge Observatory
- Description
- The Manastash Ridge Observatory plays an ancillary role in the Astronomy Department's teaching program, although it has been superceded as a research facility by the far more capable instruments at Apache Point. It is located at the crest of Manastash ridge above Ellensburg and is reached by a steep and rough dirt road that ascends to the ridge from Wheeler Canyon. The living area is surrounded by a chain link fence with a locked gate to discourage vandalism when the site is unoccupied. An auroral observation instrument is currently operated by the EE Department with John Sahr in charge. The site also hosts a GPS station for the CWV Geology Department. They are using this instrumentation to measure crustal motions in the area. Other minor non-astronomy use of the facility is possible but such uses are not encouraged if they interfere with the operation of the observatory or place time demands on students or staff. The observatory is generally open full time from April through November. Due to snow and clouds, it remains closed during the winter except when critical data must be taken.
- Location
- Ellensburg, WA.
- Contact
- Julie Lutz , Astronomy and Earth Space Sciences, 206-685-9010, jlutz@astro.washington.edu
- Acreage
- N/A
- Buildings
- 2,600 sq. ft. astronomical observatory built about 1972, living area.
- Equipment
- 30" Boller & Chiven cassegrain telescope, support equipment, computers.
- Housing
- Three bedrooms, kitchen, living room.
- Owner
- The facility is built on land leased from the state.
- Support
- General operating funds and private donations for new instrumentation.
- Recent Usage
- Most of the use is by undergraduates learning the basics of observational technique, primarily through organized courses such as ASTR 497.
- Usage Fee
- None.
- Condition
- Aging.
- Communication
- Telephone, 509-925-6367.
- Access
- Rough road--4 wheel drive only.
- Unique Environment
- Location on Manastash Ridge is unique.
- Faculty/Staff
- Julie Lutz, Observatory Director. No one is permanently on site.
