Observatory Park

Observatory Park

The park was thoughtfully constructed to reflect the science that took place there. An ellipse representing the Earth’s motion is created between the observatory and the meridian pier, denoted by benches and landscaping. The path itself, when viewed from above, represents the Earth’s wobble.

The City of Gaithersburg and five other cities around the globe are linked by a unique scientific endeavor that began more than 100 years ago. They are all home to latitude observatories which tracked the wobble of the Earth on its polar axis through star readings to aid in navigation. Other observatories can be found in Cincinnati, Ohio; Ukiah, California; Mizusawa, Japan; Kitab, Uzbekistan; and Caligari, Sardinia, Italy.

The Gaithersburg Latitude Observatory operated from 1899 to 1982, when satellites replaced human observers. It is still active, however, with GPS systems using survey markers installed on these grounds to make periodic course corrections. Fully restored in the 1980’s, the observatory building, the meridian mark pier, and the five geodetic monuments scattered throughout the park are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

LOCATION

Observatory Park

100 DeSellum Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877

ALBUQUERQUE LITTLE THEATRE

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PUBLIC HOURS

Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM

Contact information

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