O'burg approves astronomical observatory

Ogdensburg-The Borough Planning Board, at its meeting June 21, approved a site plan for construction of an astronomical observatory at the Sterling Hill Mining Museum. The museum, a national historic site providing educational opportunities to schools, clubs, and civic organizations, offers an underground mine tour with mineral fluorescence displayed in a natural environment. The observatory, a dome designed with retractable shutters, will allow placement of an 800 pound telescope recently obtained by the museum. It is expected to operate an average of four nights per month, 9:30 p.m.-midnight, depending upon astronomical events and weather conditions. The dome will accommodate a maximum of 10 people at a time but will be available to groups of 30-50. After the meeting, Richard Hauck, president of the non-profit foundation that owns the museum, pointed out that the museum is visited by 25,000 people per year. The observatory, which will be available to all levels of education, is expected to be opened in fall of this year. Call 973-209-7212 or visit www.sterlinghill.org.