Hemlock Crossing Public Observatory

NOTICE 3/15/2024.

The telescope in the Public Observatory at Hemlock Crossing is undergoing repairs and will be
closed for the next 10 – 12 weeks.

Friday Public Observing nights and astronomy programs will continue as scheduled, thanks to our dedicated SAAA members who will showcase their smaller telescopes for everyone to enjoy the night sky.

 


 

The Hemlock Crossing Public Observatory is the first public observatory in West Michigan. Located at 8115 West Olive Rd West Olive, MI 49460, the facility houses a 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. It was opened in 2022 and is operated by members of the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association (SAAA).

The completion of the project was made possible with support from members of the SAAA, Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Commission, Friends of Ottawa County Parks, the Ottawa County Parks Foundation, and members of our community who made financial contributions, large and small, to support this project.

The observatory would not have been possible without the generous support from the community and we thank-you! If you would like to make a contribution click the donate button below.


 

Hemlock Crossing Public Observatory

Meade LX600 16-inch Telescope

 

 

 

 

 

 

Public Viewing

Hours of operation are seasonal and weather dependent.  The observatory is open to the public on Friday evenings throughout the year whenever conditions allow. See calendar below for dates, times and weather cancellations. Please note if cloud conditions are overcast or there is a chance of rain or snow, the viewing session will be canceled.

Private Viewing

The SAAA and Ottawa County Parks is currently developing a process for private programs. More information will be coming soon. SAAA members looking to schedule a private visit should contact Frank Roldan.