The observatory is not well designed for social events**, so we limit events to those with an astronomical focus. Alcohol is not permitted on site.
Daytime access to the observatory can be arranged**, depending on the proposed use [see notes, below]. General info or comments: 303-871-5172.
Thank you for cooperating on these
scheduling policies that are intended to help avoid double booking, unsafe
conditions, and ensure longevity of the facility and telescope.
http://www.denverastro.org/publicnights.html#PUBLIC_NIGHT_RESERVATIONS
**More notes for external groups, added 10-30-2017: The historic 1890 observatory building was not designed to be a public facility, so limitations exist - including no ADA accommodations, only one rest room, and fire code limits on group sizes to no more than 24 including chaperones. As such, we do not host parties, weddings, photo-shoots etc. To improve the odds for a successful visit by your group, please answer the following: (1) what is your goal for visiting DU's historic Chamberlin Observatory, and why this cannot be met during one of our regular evening programs? (2) what is your group size, including chaperones? what typical ages are involved? (3) we normally require at least 2 weeks notice prior to a group visit, to insure availability of space and helpers - what is the span of dates you are considering? (4) we have no budget for extra programs beyond DAS public nights and DU classes -- what reasonable amount would you consider in terms of paying DU for the privilege of access outside of those normal hours? Please email your reply to Prof. Stencel at robert.stencel AT du.edu or phone 303-871-5172.
More policy detail, 5/5/03: Because of a recent occurance, it is time to spell out the assumptions once more: Chamberlin Observatory scheduling procedures exist to prevent double booking and chaos. Keyholding is a privilege, not a right. We extend keyholding privileges to DAS members who take lead roles in providing the DAS Public Night and Open House functions -- specifically for those purposes. I value our relationship with the DAS because it provides 8 to 10 monthly astronomy events for the public that might not otherwise exist. Note, DAS is the only non-DU group to have this level of access. In return, we ask the DAS to observe a set of safety and training procedures, to carry liability insurance, to ensure the continuation of the relationship and future of the observatory facility. Each keyholder represents DAS and is therefore covered by the DAS liability insurance. Whereas DAS volunteers deserve perks, if DAS keyholders schedule private groups outside of the regular DAS program, DU still views these as DAS functions subject to the same rules and liabilities, with the E-BOARD/DAS ULTIMATELY RESPONSIBLE AND LIABLE in the event of injury claims or damage. Henceforth, failure to SCHEDULE special events other than regular DAS Public Nights, monthly Friday after-meeting or Saturday Open House, may result in loss of privileges. THESE REQUESTS MUST BE MADE *AT LEAST TWO WEEKS IN ADVANCE* TO THE DIRECTOR OR DEPUTY DIRECTOR of the Observatory. There areseveral Friday and Saturday evenings open each month for such purposes. Your cooperation is appreciated and will help avoid double booking problems. I ask for notice so as to check calendars, etc. After hours, please observe decorum [limit the noise for neighbors] and be aware of the 11 pm park curfew - police can ask you to leave IF you are wandering around outside the building. To minimize intrusion by "park people" please keep the doors locked. Prof. Robert Stencel, Director of Chamberlin Observatory updated 3/9/2005BACK