MCCM Astronomical Observatory Image Galleries Index Page

The MCCM Observatory was originally established in 1999 at the Biosphere 2 complex near Oracle, Arizona. In 2007 it was acquired by us. And in 2008 the relocation to Maryland began with the ultimate goal being to establish a research grade facility to promote science education through astronomy; the primary intended audience are primary and secondary age school children.

• Construction Of The Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory Facilities - July to Sept. 1999 A one hundred seventy nine (179) image collection documenting the construction of the Biosphere 2 astronomical observatory Dome and associated classroom/control buildings starting in July and completed in September 1999. This is particularly helpful to those who plan to build their own Observatory since it shows good details regarding construction of the pier foundation and Observatory slab, routing of utilities, and more.
  Thumbnail images are 160 x 160 resolution, while linked enlarged views are 800 x 600. Contents Copyright 1999-2008 Biosphere 2 and MCCMO, all rights reserved.

• Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory RC-24 Telescope Installation - Sept. 1999 Forty-seven (47) image collection documenting the installation of the Biosphere 2 astronomical observatory OGS RC-24 24 inch (.6 m) Ritchey-Chrétien telescope with Fork Mount and Pier in September 1999.
  Thumbnail images are 160 x 160 resolution, while linked enlarged views are 800 x 600. Contents Copyright 1999-2008 Biosphere 2 and MCCMO, all rights reserved.

• Site Survey of The Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory Complex: May 2008

• Biosphere 2 Astronomical Observatory Disassembly & Crating - June 2008 Sixty-eight (68) image collection documenting the disassembly for relocation of the Biosphere 2 astronomical observatory OGS RC-24 24 inch (.6 m) Ritchey-Chrétien telescope with Fork Mount and Pier, Dome and Base starting Sunday 22 June and finishing on Wednesday 25 June. At first glance this may appear to be a sad event, but it is in fact a new beginning for an otherwise under utilized fine instrument that will soon find a new home and higher purpose. This sequence is particularly beneficial for those who plan to relocate an Ash Dome since it provides among the most helpful images on line about rigging and removing an Ash Dome, disassembling and packing of the components.
  Thumbnail images are 160 x 160 resolution, while linked enlarged views are 800 x 600. Contents Copyright 2008 by MCCMO, all rights reserved.