University of Kansas Will Break Ground on New Observatory
The Clyde Tombaugh Observatory project will begin construction in Lawrence on October 9, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Space
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On October 9, 2026, the University of Kansas will break ground on the new Clyde Tombaugh Observatory outside Slawson Hall. The project honors the namesake astronomer who discovered Pluto while working in Flagstaff, Arizona, in 1930.
Why it matters
The new facility will serve as a permanent home for the university's 140-year-old Clark Refractor telescope. It represents a collaborative effort between the school's Architecture & Design and Physics & Astronomy departments.
The facility will house the 140-year-old Clark Refractor telescope. Clyde Tombaugh was just 24 years old when he identified Pluto while at the Lowell Observatory in 1930.
The players
Clyde Tombaugh
He was an American astronomer who is credited with the discovery of Pluto in 1930 while working at the Lowell Observatory.
Loral O'Hara
She is a NASA astronaut who has contributed to research aboard the International Space Station.
University of Kansas
This public research university based in Lawrence, Kansas, hosts various academic departments including architecture and physics.
The details
The project serves as a joint venture between the KU Architecture & Design and Physics & Astronomy departments to provide an upgraded space for legacy research equipment. Following the noon groundbreaking, NASA Astronaut Loral O'Hara is scheduled to speak regarding space exploration in Malott Hall room 3005.
Timeline
Groundbreaking is scheduled for noon on October 9, 2026.
NASA Astronaut Loral O'Hara will speak at 1 p.m. on October 9, 2026.
Deeper Dive
The university is building the observatory to honor the 1930 discovery of Pluto by Clyde Tombaugh. This project follows a historical pattern of integrating legacy scientific instruments into modern academic research facilities.
The new facility will provide the Lawrence community with an enhanced space for astronomical study and public viewing opportunities. It ensures that the university's historical 140-year-old telescope remains functional for future generations of students and residents.
The takeaway
Preserving historical scientific instruments like the Clark Refractor allows modern institutions to maintain a tangible connection to past discoveries. Residents interested in astronomy can look forward to the new observatory providing expanded educational resources in Lawrence.
Further reading
For more information on current regional projects, see our coverage of Space.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kansas Public Radio.
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