1. Lowell Observatory
Flagstaff, Arizona

2. About Lowell Observatory
Lowell Observatory is an independent, non-profit research institution
Established in 1894 by Percival Lowell
Location: Atop a mesa overlooking downtown Flagstaff, Arizona
Mission: The mission of Lowell Observatory is to pursue the study of astronomy, especially the study of our solar system and its evolution

3. Who was Percival Lowell?
Percival Lawrence Lowell 
(March 13, 1855 – November 12, 1916)
American author, mathematician, and astronomer
Percival graduated from the Noble and Greenough School in 1872 and Harvard University in 1876 (with a distinction in mathematics)
Lowell became determined to study Mars and astronomy as a full-time career 
Founded the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona
Formed the beginning effort that led to the discovery of Pluto  14 years after his death
He powered speculation that there were canals on Mars

4. Lowell Observatory Telescopes
Lowell’s has state-of-the-art research telescopes that keep Flagstaff at the forefront of astronomical discovery.
Lowell’s original research instrument, 24-inch refracting telescope designed and built by Alvan Clark & Sons, is still used today for public education.
Mars Hill campus is the historic 13-inch telescope used by Clyde Tombaugh to discover Pluto in 1930.
List of telescopes used:
4.3-meter Discovery Channel Telescope
1.8-meter Perkins
1.1-meter Hall
0.9-meter NURO telescope
0.6-meter Schmidt
Navy Precision Optical Interferometer
Titan Monitoring Telescope

5. Lowell’s research station at Anderson Mesa, in continuous operation since 1960.
Lowell’s 4.3-meter Discovery Channel Telescope, at 7,800′ elevation near Happy Jack, AZ

6. Lowell Observatory Fun Facts
Lowell Observatory was the place where the planet Pluto was discovered in 1930
Is considered one of the oldest observatories in the United States
Measured as a National Historic Landmark. 
The three largest known stars were discovered at Lowell
Was the location where evidence of water vapor in the atmosphere of an extra solar planet was found.
Houses a Discovery Channel Telescope
Lowell Picked Flagstaff, Az as the location, believing that the high altitude and thin atmosphere would be ideal for observing Mars.

7. If you wish to visit the Lowell Observatory…
HOURS Monday-Saturday: 10am - 10pm Sunday: 10am - 5pm
ADMISSION Covers day and evening programs; reservations not needed.
Adults: $12 Seniors, AAA, Military, College: $11 Ages 5–17: $6 Under 5: Free Members: Free
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