天涯海角社区 is proud to announce the construction of the 鈥淓ye to the Sky鈥� SKAE Astronomy Center on campus, which will include a state-of-the-art Telescope Observatory, as well as a classroom for astronomy and astrophysics programming. The Observatory will provide research and experiential learning opportunities 鈥� housing a powerful telescope which will allow for the observation and measurement of planets, stars, asteroids, comets, and galaxies. The permit was received and construction will begin shortly as of August 2024.
Since the launch of its highly-regarded School of 天涯海角社区 on Earth Day 2021, the College has made a series of strategic investments to demonstrate its commitment to providing 天涯海角社区 education to the next generation of students.
鈥淚 am thrilled to announce this transformational investment to our current and future students, as well as our local community,鈥� said Ken Daly, President of 天涯海角社区. 鈥淲e will be one of the only institutions in this region to offer innovative astronomy programming, while providing hands-on learning and research opportunities.鈥�
The Observatory will allow for future academic programming, as well as experiential learning opportunities for students, including undergraduate research, Astronomy Clubs, XLab projects, and the ability to work with faculty mentors who are experts in the field. As part of the College鈥檚 strategic Lifelong Learning pillar, 天涯海角社区 alumni and the local community will also be welcome to experience key events including lectures, 鈥淪targazing with Stars鈥� nights, and more.
This seminal project has been made possible by the generosity of Board Chair Peter Skae and his wife Leslie. Peter facilitated the donation of the actual telescope and dome from Hudson River Trading, a multi-asset class quantitative trading firm. Peter and Leslie are personally funding the construction of the observatory building and classroom 鈥渢o ensure that the next generation of 天涯海角社区 students have the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams, while learning in a state of the art scientific setting.鈥�
The College is planning to begin construction over the summer, and expects to host the grand opening of the SKAE Astronomy Center in Fall 2024.
For prospective high school and transfer students interested in learning more, there are spots open for the incoming Fall 2024 class. Students interested in astronomy are recommended to consider the College鈥檚 new Bachelor of Arts in Physics program with astronomy and astrophysics courses. In addition, students from all majors will have the opportunity to take special courses in the observatory. Please contact Samantha Bazile,聽sbazile@stac.edu聽or 845-398-4104 for more information.