Seeing in Depth provide a more intimate and intensive experience than our regular open houses. Registration is limited to 40 guests, which allows everyone to have more time in the dome and at the telescope, if weather permits observing. The event is built around a particular theme which links the history of the Observatory and the University to modern astronomy and observing the heavens.

October’s event will focus on the observatory’s second director, James Watson. During his time at the observatory, Watson discovered 22 asteroids, making him one of the most successful asteroid finders in history. This program includes a talk about Watson’s journey to the 1878 solar eclipse to search for a new planet, discussions on Watson’s unique life story, and demonstrations of the Henry Fitz refractor. If weather permits, we will be observing some of the asteroids that Watson discovered using the Fitz refractor.