The University of Denver owns and operates the Historic
Chamberlin Observatory -- a building appearing on the national
Historic Landmark list. The building reflects the architecture of
its era, and as such poses accessibility limitations to its
visitors. Steep stairs are required to even enter the building,
and there are no lifts, ramps, or other accommodations for
wheelchairs or other motion assisting devices. Other impediments
to motion include low or non-existent handrails, and a small
non-handicap equipped restroom. A narrow spiral staircase must
be climbed in order to reach the upper floor.
Weeknight entrance is at the north end of the building:
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Weekend Entrance is usually at the South or Main entrance to the building:
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A narrow spiral staircase must be negotiated to reach the telescope area:
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A gantry with ladder like steps leading to a platform is often used to view
objects lower towards the horizon.
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By necessity, the observing area with the telescope is not heated. This
keeps the telescope ready for observing. Visitors should be dressed
accordingly. The temperature inside this area is the same as outside.
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Lighting is very dim in the observing area, as white light destroys
an astronomer's ability to see faint objects. To these ends those
experiencing difficulties with low light situations are advised to
remain on the lower floors.
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People viewing objects with the telescope are often required to use
the existing gantry to reach the eyepiece. This gantry is steep,
narrow, and requires good balance and good eyesight for its proper
use. The elevation of the gantry's platform above the floor may
reach distances on the order of 12 feet or more. There is no expectation
that visitors should attempt to use this equipment unless they feel
comfortable in doing so.
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People who are under the influence of alcohol or other mind altering
substances may be requested to leave the building for their own safety
and the safety of others. The University Police may be summoned as necessary.
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The Denver Astronomical is privileged to use the Historic Chamberlin
Observatory to host many of its public outreach activities. DAS reaches
approximately 5,000 people each year. Weekly, we host a Tuesday and Thursday
night session to discuss topics of astronomy and to view celestial objects
with the large telescope. Once per month we host an Open House event
where members bring telescopes and set up on the lawn outside the
observatory. DAS does this with an extremely limited budget.
We neither own nor lease the space at Chamberlin Observatory.
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In order to reach as many people as possible, we hold a monthly open
house event, where our members bring their personal telescopes to
the lawn of Observatory Park. This event offers people with accessibility
issues some access to viewing celestial objects. Access to the bathroom
suffers the same issue as above.
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Please bear with us as Chamberlin Observatory is one of the few remaining
observatories to enjoy some measure of public access.
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Due to our very limited budget we are unable to offer signing or
other technology to facilitate people with hearing difficulties. You
are welcome to bring your own resources and we will help you to the best
of our abilities to utilize those resources.
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Astronomy is a highly visual experience, and our activities are not
recommended for the sight-impaired. During our weeknight events, we
offer a general lecture to the public, that relies heavily on
slides and other images, but the talking part may provice some
small measure of value to sight impared people.
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