DYER OBSERVATORY

An astronomical observatory in Nashville? It is possible, and it is even located on one of the highest points in the region, at an altitude of 345 m! The Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory is on the edge of Radnor Lake State Park and is listed as an American Historic Monument. Vanderbilt University has a long tradition in astronomy. Indeed, its first director, Landon Garland, was a professor of physics and astronomy and did not hesitate to collect many instruments and accessories dedicated to stargazing as early as 1875. It is therefore quite naturally that an observatory is created, which will evolve with the new equipment and renovations, with the leitmotiv always being to allow students to benefit from all the infrastructures. Today, in addition to the buildings, domes and various class instruments, visitors can admire in the park the famous sculpture of the "starred room", surprising with its spiral shape of stone and logs created by the famous British artist Chris Drury. During daytime visits as well as during observation evenings, only one watchword is required for the team of animators present on site: to welcome and explain with passion the themes dear to astronomy.