Atmospheric Research Observatory

In 1938, a 24" portable telescope operated jointly by Cornell University and Arizona State College at Flagstaff occupied this site. When astronomer and physicist Arthur Adel accepted a professorship on campus in 1948, he obtained an Air Force grant to construct a permanent research facility to study atmospheric ozone. In 1953, his efforts resulted in the college's construction of the Atmospheric Research Observatory.

In addition to ozone studies, Adel used the facility to help astronauts, including Neil Armstrong, prepare for missions. In 2008, longtime NAU astrophysics professor Barry Lutz donated $50,000 towards the half-meter Lutz telescope to keep the observatory viable. It is open to the public on clear Friday evenings.