Rosemary Hill Observatory

Rosemary Hill Observatory is an astronomical facility in rural Florida that operates two separate telescope systems for research and education. The installation includes a 30-inch Tinsley reflecting telescope and an 18-inch Ritchey-Chretien reflector housed in individual domes across the expansive property, along with dormitories that allow researchers to stay on site during observation campaigns.

The University of Florida established the observatory in 1967 with support from the National Science Foundation and a generous land contribution from Marie Hergert. This founding provided the institution with dedicated facilities for conducting serious astronomical research in a location with exceptionally dark skies.

The facility serves as the Department of Astronomy's primary training ground for graduate and undergraduate students conducting research and learning observational techniques.

The site is located about 40 kilometers southwest of Gainesville in a region with minimal light pollution that makes it ideal for astronomical work. Visitors should come prepared for rural conditions and allow time for eyes to adjust to the dark skies when observing.

The location sits within one of Florida's darkest zones for sky observation, where stars and celestial objects remain visible with surprising clarity from the ground. This exceptional darkness makes it possible to conduct observations that would be impossible in areas closer to urban centers.