Manastash Ridge Observatory
SCIENCETECH · OBSERVATORY
Manastash Ridge Observatory
Science & Tech
Manastash Ridge Observatory, built in 1972 on Manastash Ridge west of Ellensburg, is a University of Washington facility for astronomical observing and research. Its principal telescope, a 0.75-meter Ritchey-Chrétien instrument, has supported professional and graduate work and is now used mainly by undergraduates for instruction and research. The site remained active despite earlier threats to its funding as attention shifted elsewhere. It also houses the Manastash Ridge Radar, which uses commercial FM broadcasts to study ionospheric turbulence and detect meteors and airplanes. In 2015, sustainability improvements added rainwater collection and solar power to meet the observatory’s water and energy needs more efficiently.
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