Ralph Buice Jr. Observatory

Free Public Observations

The Dr. Ralph L. Buice, Jr. Observatory at Fernbank Science Center houses a 0.9 meter (36-inch) Cassegrain reflector beneath a 10 meter (30 ft.) dome. This is one of the largest instruments ever dedicated to education and public viewing.

FREE public observations are offered every Thursday and Friday evening from 9:00 - 10:00 PM (weather permitting). The observatory will open only when there is a clear view of the night sky.

Please call 678-874-7102 between 8:30 PM and 9:00 PM on the day of your visit for observatory updates.

Please check our calendar for dates that the observatory will be closed.