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Astronomy at Windowpane Observatory
 Windowpane Observatory (WPO) is so named after the forty-eight inch square viewing glass through which astronomers can observe the sky in year-round comfort. Looking through this window to the universe is an eighteen inch short-focus reflecting telescope.
WPO is engaged in the astronomical science of discovery. We are searching for comets, supernovae, and earth-crossing asteroids. WPO is a visual observatory contributing to fundamental astronomical science in the tradition of Galileo and Isaac Newton. In fact, our reflecting telescope is called a Newtonian.
WPO is located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert at the gateway to the Organ Pipe National Monument. This area of the United States is part of a protected United Nations Biosphere. The pristine Sonoran Desert contains many rare plants and animals peculiar only to this area. With it's extremely dry climate and clear nights this site is darker than the United States' National Astronomical Facility at Kitt Peak.
Most observatories can only be visited during the day when astronomers are not working. WPO can be visited at night and the general public is invited to join us in a voyage of discovery. The modest fee charged for this adventure helps to fund the basic science conducted at WPO.
Windowpane Observatory is a proud member of and contributor to optical astronomy via the National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO) and the European Southern Observatory (ESO)
If you would like to join us at Windowpane Observatory separate and apart from the activities mentioned on these Web pages please contact us for observatory and astronomer-guided tour information.
Astronomy Gift Ideas
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Under $10
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$2.99
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How to be Happy on a Cloudy Planet
What might technology on Earth be like in 50 years? Find out in this new sci fi coming-of-age story for kids and adults. The science fiction in this story is based on the new wonder material known as graphene. Instant e-delivery makes this a great last minute gift. more info ... buy now
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$6.95
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Star and Planet Planisphere
A roadmap of the night sky and accompanying booklet shows the location of stars, planets and constellations in your night sky when you dial in the exact hour and date. buy now
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Under $20
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$14.95
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Extraterrestrial Planet Finder Kit
Conduct your own search for extraterrestrial intelligence!
Astronomers at Windowpane Observatory have assembled a scientific kit for amateur astronomers to attempt to locate and contact extraterrestrials. more info ... buy now
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$19.95
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Secrets of the Christmas Star audio CD
Myths and Realities About the Star of Bethlehem. Astronomer Bill takes the listener on a guided tour of one the most recorded astronomical events of history. more info ... buy now
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Under $40
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$39.95
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Name a Galaxy
Includes registration in the Galaxy Registry Archives, a personal signed letter from our Chief Astronomer, a full color star chart and a certificate available in your choice of 3 styles. buy now
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$59.95
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Hubble Slide Show Name a Galaxy Package
Our Name a Galaxy gift package plus our stunning HubbleTelescope Slide Show, a visual feast of images from deep space taken by the Hubble Space Telescope. Available on CD or via e-delivery. buy now
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Under $75
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$74.95
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ET Planet Finder Name a Galaxy Package
Our Hubble Slide Show Name a Galaxy package plus our famous Extraterrestrial Planet Finder Kit. Perfect for locating inhabitable planets from your own back yard. Available on CD or via e-delivery. buy now
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