Blaine F. Roelke Memorial Observatory

The Blaine F. Roelke Memorial Observatory (BFRMO) is home to our primary instrument, a Celestron 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope previously owned by Mr. Roelke. The telescope is mounted on a Celestron CGE Pro computerized German-Equatorial mounting, which in turn is mounted atop a Pier Tech model II motorized pier.

From left, Tony DeLuca of A.J. DeLuca Contractors, Park Operations Coordinator Dawn Harry, and Frank Roelke are pictured inside the Blaine F. Roelke Memorial Observatory at Bear Branch Nature Center in Westminster Thursday, August 20, 2015. Credit: Dylan Slagle/Carroll County Times

The building features a 3-meter diameter Ash dome. Siding and painting were provided by Carroll County Parks and Recreation.

The observatory is equipped with AC electrical service as well as white and red lighting. An exterior concrete pad is available for telescopes set up by visitors. Electrical service for these is provided by exterior outlets on the observatory.

Frank Roelke, Tony DeLuca of A.J. DeLuca Contractors, and Park Operations Coordinator Dawn Harry, look at old pictures of the original observatory outside the Blaine F. Roelke Memorial Observatory at Bear Branch Nature Center in Westminster Thursday, August 20, 2015. Credit: Dylan Slagle/Carroll County Times

Current Observing Conditions at BFRMO