By 1812Blockhouse
The following post was previously shared as part of our “Everything You Always Wanted To Know About” series. Since then, the folks at the Richland Astronomical Society have added a new public viewing night, and we have updated our post. 1812Blockhouse takes periodic looks at a variety of things in the Richland County area – some, like today, are geographic locations; other times, they will be organizations, or causes; or even events and happenings. Each time, we will collect details from across the Internet and combine them into a single list.
Today we look at the Warren Rupp Observatory.
Address: 5127 Possum Run Road, Bellville, on the grounds of Friendly House Hidden Hollow Camp
Operated by: Richland Astronomical Society
Telescope: 36” diameter mirror Newtonian telescope, also known as a f/6.3 Newtonian, one of the world’s largest amateur operated telescopes
When Observatory built: 1984 for Observatory; 1985 for telescope
Cost of construction: $250,000
Funding for construction: Warren E. Rupp (1920-1987), local industrialist
Annual “star” event: Hidden Hollow Star Party, usually in September
Public Viewing Nights: First Saturday of each month, March through November (weather permitting); Also at Lowe-Volk Park north of Galion and west of Crestline on the Fourth Saturday of each month (more information here).
Society meetings: First Saturday of each month, three hours before Public Viewing Night begins
Upcoming Events: These include a September Equinox viewing event, a Global Moon Party, and more.
Society dues: Annual Membership Fees are $20 Student, $40 Individual, and $60 Family. Due by January 31. Can be paid by Cash or Check payable to R.A.S. Mail to: Bryan Summer – Treasurer, 1290 Fairview Ave., Galion, OH 44833
Website and Calendar of Events: http://wro.org
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Warren-Rupp-Observatory/120048584708048
