








Welcome to the
Detroit Observatory,
where Michigan’s History
is Written in the Stars
Plan to See the Stars
The Detroit Observatory has re-opened! We welcome you to join us Friday evenings in April for exhibits, tours, presentations, and observing!
Learn MoreRediscover the Detroit Observatory
Take a virtual tour of this newly reimagined, one-of-a-kind place, where the spirit of science and discovery link the past and present.

The 12" Fitz refractor in the dome. Photo by Shannon Murphy.
Fitz Refracting Telescope
When it was installed in 1857, the Fitz telescope was the third-largest refracting telescope in the world. More than 20 asteroids and 3 comets were discovered by astronomers looking through its lens. Today, visitors can still see the stars through this working instrument.
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The 6-inch Henry Walker Meridian Circle telescope, located in the east wing. In the foreground is the observer's bench.
Meridian Circle Telescope
Built in 1854, this telescope’s purpose was measuring with extreme precision the position of stars and other celestial bodies. It was designed for research and as a time-setting tool for business and railroad stations throughout the state. It was the most cutting-edge technology for its time.
Learn MoreAre You Interested in Helping Detroit Observatory Visitors Explore the Sky and Discover the Past?
We have completed hiring our first cohort of docents, but we expect to have more openings in the future, so please check back!
Would you like to give history tours of the Detroit Observatory or of the University of Michigan campus? Help educate visitors using Observatory exhibits and facilities? Develop and mount exhibits on astronomy, other sciences, the history of U-M, and more?
A docent is a person who acts as an educator and guide at a museum or, in this case, an historic observatory. Their job is to help visitors have the best experience they can.
There are two kinds of docents at the Detroit Observatory: Astronomy Docents, who help with telescope operation and astronomy presentations, and U-M History docents, who help with history tours, presentations, and exhibits. Our docents will receive extensive training relevant to their responsibilities. Prior experience in operating telescopes, giving tours, or understanding U-M history is not necessary.
These are paid positions, and application is through the U-M Student Employment Website.
We have completed hiring our first cohort of docents, but we expect to have more openings in the future, so please check back!
Would you like to give history tours of the Detroit Observatory or of the University of Michigan campus? Help educate visitors using Observatory exhibits and facilities? Develop and mount exhibits on astronomy, other sciences, the history of U-M, and more?
A docent is a person who acts as an educator and guide at a museum or, in this case, an historic observatory. Their job is to help visitors have the best experience they can.
There are two kinds of docents at the Detroit Observatory: Astronomy Docents, who help with telescope operation and astronomy presentations, and U-M History docents, who help with history tours, presentations, and exhibits. Our docents will receive extensive training relevant to their responsibilities. Prior experience in operating telescopes, giving tours, or understanding U-M history is not necessary.
These are paid positions, and application is through the U-M Student Employment Website.
At a Glance
Quick facts about the Detroit Observatory

