Girl Scouts of America Observatory

 

Sea West is designing a world-class observatory for the Girl Scouts of America at their southern Nevada camp, created to inspire the next generation of young astronomers and serve as a hub for public outreach and community engagement.

University of Utah Observatory plan
University of Utah Observatory plan

About the observatory

The Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada Observatory will be a top-tier educational facility designed to ignite curiosity and passion for astronomy among young girls. Located at the Girl Scouts’ Southern Nevada Alamo Camp, this observatory will provide hands-on experiences with professional astronomical equipment, giving campers the opportunity to explore space and learn the science behind it. The observatory will support STEM education, research opportunities, and public outreach events—creating a space where the excitement of discovery is shared across generations.

Project Scope

Sea West is partnering with the Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada to deliver a fully equipped, professional-grade observatory that will serve as both an educational hub and a community resource. The observatory will feature a 24′-6″ Ash Dome and a PlaneWave 1-meter telescope and Sea West’s observatory management system – equipment typically found in major research institutions. This project is designed not only to support Girl Scout programs, but also to host stargazing nights, fundraisers, and public outreach events that welcome the broader community. The facility will become a landmark destination for astronomy education in the region.

Partners

Sea West is proud to collaborate with the Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada, Ash Manufacturing, and PlaneWave Instruments on this inspiring project. This partnership brings together leading expertise in observatory design, dome manufacturing, and advanced telescope systems to create a powerful and lasting educational experience for young explorers.

  Dome

Dome
24’-6” Ash Dome

Telescope

Telescopes
PlaneWave 1-Meter

 

Research

Astrophotography

Visual Observing

Visual Observing

Research

Research

Dome

Domes
14’-6” Ash Dome

Telescope

Telescopes
14-inch Meade LX200GPS,
12-inch Meade LX200 ACF,
Multiple 10-inch Meade LX200 ACF

Astrophotography

Astrophotography

Visual Observing

Visual Observing

Public Outreach

Research