Astronomy is the most ancient of the sciences, and ties together physics, chemistry, biology, zoology and environmental studies. It is still the great imponderable, and few people can look at the sky on a dark, moonless night in the country without being awe-struck. The first view of Saturn through a good telescope is inspirational. The issue of light pollution has now been solved by current technology, and quality astronomical photographs have even been taken from driveways in New York City and suburbs of Sydney.

A computerised telescope of useful aperture (254 mm and up) in a small domed building could be up and running for less than many people might think. You could have change left from $ 20 000. A larger facility with a 16 inch aperture telescope capable of excellent quality viewing and imaging could be had for less than $ 40 000.

Such telescopes would be able to be used by students from Year 4 to adult, for the computer software employed enables the user to locate the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, nebulae, and galaxies at any time or date by a couple of mouse clicks. The telescope automatically slews to the object and tracks it as it moves across the sky. All the operator has to do is to look in the eyepiece or take the picture. As the database holds millions of objects, the older student can hunt down planetary nebulae, colliding galaxies and quasars as well. Some solar system objects can even be observed in daylight hours.

The end result of building such an observatory would be to have an innovative facility available to every student and staff member, and their families. It would be highly visible confirmation of the school’s commitment to scientific excellence, as a school orchestra is a symbol of musical excellence. It could be hired out for the use of special interest groups, amateur astronomers, school families and individuals, and so earn its keep.

All that your school would be required to do is to choose a site and provide underground electric power. If desired, you could have data and security cabling installed in the same trench. Starfield Observatory would look after everything else until handover of the keys, whereupon you could hold a ‘First Light’ celebration or official opening.

The two most important qualities in a telescope are the perfection of the optics and the precision of the mount. We recommend telescopes of the Ritchey Chrétien Schmidt-Cassegrain design. This uses a light path folded on itself three times, resulting in a short, stubby optical tube assembly, which has the advantage of being less prone to vibration and instability than a longer instrument. The Schmidt-Cassegrain has a sealed tube, which keeps the mirrors free from dust and damage from air pollution or salt air. If funds permit, a telescope made by Ritchey Chrétien Optical Systems offers professional performance.