What is the LakeSky Observatory?

• A HOME - The LakeSky Observatory (LSO) is the targeted home for the rebuilt LakeSky 20 Telescope (LST). It will be a functioning observatory operated by the Lake County Astronomical Society (LCAS). It is targeted for completion (final site location and construction) in the next 2 years.
• AN EDUCATIONAL CENTER - The LakeSky Observatory will provide LCAS with the opportunity to further expand our public and educational outreach surrounding the area of astronomy.
  • Access to the night skies shielded from local light pollution.
  • Access to highly knowledgeable amateur astronomers to learn about the many objects we can observe in the night skies.
  • Access to views through the LakeSky 20 Telescope, capturing more than 5,100 times more light than the human eye to see deep into space.
  A STUDY CENTER - Members of LCAS will utilize the LakeSky Telescope to further their studies and knowledge of the skies.

Where will it be located?

We are currently seeking a site to build the LakeSky Observatory. Site selection criteria has been established, and some potential sites are being considered.

We are actively seeking additional sites in the Lake County and McHenry area, to evaluate for acceptability as an observatory site. If you have suggestions or are a public official interested in locating our observatory in your community, please contact us at contact@lcas-astronomy.org

What type of site does the club need for their observatory?

There are many considerations in the location of an observatory. Dark skies and a low viewing horizon are important to extend the reach of the observer into the night skies, but the site also needs to be readily accessible to the public, which means some level of light pollution will be evident. Comforts (parking, security, bathrooms) as well as the interest of the local community and its leadership in supporting LCAS in creating an observatory in this location are all important considerations.

The LakeSky Observatory (LSO)

This concept elevation shows the domed observatory approach being utilized to construct the LSO. The building provides for security for the telescope and for additional astronomy equipment at the site. With a domed observatory, the observer may use the LakeSky Telescope with some protection from the elements, and shielded from local light pollution. Concept drawing provided courtesy of United Construction Company; David Cecchini