Since 2000, the LAS has owned a forty acre dark site in southern Indiana less than one hour away from downtown Louisville. Its official name is the James G. Baker Center for Astronomy. But all of us in the Louisville Astronomical Society just call it Curby after the small town in southern Indiana that is just a few miles away.
What is a dark sky site? As the name implies, it is a place of wonder where you can look up and see the Milky Way horizon to horizon and galaxies naked eye. Curby has an light controlled observing field between a well-equipped MPB we call T-2 and a roll-off roof observatory where three mighty telescopes wait to open up the night sky for observations of the moon, planets, galaxies and deep sky objects.
These instruments, a 16” Meade SCT, a 150mm Astrophyics Starfire Refractor and a Celestron C-14 are ready for you to stargaze through in style. In fact, our building size and its instruments make it the largest observatory in the region. LAS members come together here monthly on Member Night to talk astronomy, observe and enjoy their passion together. We also offer Public Programs and scout astronomy merit badge programs to promote astronomy which is our club’s mission.
When you need a break, our climate-controlled multi-purpose building is just steps away. T-2 is at the front of the field and features his and her restrooms, a kitchen and a classroom equipped with computers and programs to help you plan your viewing.
Be prepared to see the night sky as you cannot see it from Louisville. Come to Curby for member night or public night!
It is included in your membership and is a great asset for all.
For directions, go to the observing venues section of this website. Enjoy!
