The Observing Site is 5 acres of clearing south of the Summit.  This southeastern view shows the Gaertner Observatory (center) and Club House (left).  Out of view is the Pavilion, which was constructed in 2001.  In the future, a Roll-Away Observatory will be built for Arunah Hills large telescopes (Fitz and Pruyn refractors, 24-inch Dobsonian, and the Whitney Newtonians).

Massachusetts National Guard Project

Started in 1990, a clearing was slowly carved out of the forest by volunteers.  In 1999, the Massachusetts National Guard bulldozed the clearing stumps, allowing grading & grass planting.  A series of terraces rises up the hill, inviting visitors to set up telescopes & tents.  This is where most Arunah Hill events are held.  The All-Weather Road climbs to the Summit, ending in a small parking lot, which is the pad for the future Observatory.

Parking off the road or parking area is discouraged.   The Southern Horizon is spectacular.

Picture Album of the National Guard Project

 

August 1997  (Alan Rifkin) Note: Picture taken prior to clearing of Summit.

July 1999  (Alan Rifkin) Note: Picture taken taken during the National Guard Project

Fall 2000  (Alan Rifkin) Note: Picture taken prior to the Pavilion Project

September 2002  (Alan Rifkin) Note: Picture taken shortly after completion of the Pavilion Project.