Seagrave Memorial Observatory facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Seagrave Memorial Observatory |
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The Observatory during construction in 1914
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| Organization | Skyscrapers, Inc. | ||||||||||
| Location | North Scituate, Rhode Island | ||||||||||
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Coordinates
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41°50′43″N 71°35′28″W / 41.84528°N 71.59111°W
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| Established | 1914 | ||||||||||
| Website Seagrave Memorial Observatory |
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The Seagrave Memorial Observatory is a special place for looking at stars and planets. It is an astronomical observatory located in North Scituate, Rhode Island. This observatory is named after a famous astronomer named Frank Evens Seagrave.
The group that owns and runs the observatory is called Skyscrapers, Inc. The main tool here is a large telescope. It is an 8¼-inch Alvan Clark refracting telescope.
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About the Seagrave Observatory
The Seagrave Memorial Observatory helps people learn about space. It is a place where astronomers and the public can look at the night sky. Observatories often have powerful telescopes to see far-away objects.
This observatory is known for its history and its main telescope. It is a great spot for anyone interested in astronomy.
Frank Seagrave and His Telescope
Frank Evens Seagrave was an astronomer. He received the main telescope for his 16th birthday in 1876. However, the telescope took two years to build. So, he finally got it in 1878.
This special telescope is a refracting telescope. This type of telescope uses lenses to gather and focus light. Frank Seagrave first kept the telescope at his private observatory. This was located at 119 Benefit Street in Providence. At that time, it was the third largest telescope in New England.
Moving to North Scituate
The telescope and observatory moved to a new location. This happened in October 1914. The new home was in North Scituate. This is where the current observatory building was finished.
The move allowed the observatory to have a better view of the sky. Away from city lights, it is easier to see faint stars.
Skyscrapers, Inc. Takes Over
After Frank Seagrave passed away, the observatory found a new owner. In 1936, Skyscrapers, Inc. acquired the observatory. This group is dedicated to astronomy. They continue to operate the observatory today. They use it to teach people about the universe.
Images for kids
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The Observatory during construction in 1914
