Warren Rupp Observatory
5127 Possum Run Road
Bellville, Ohio
Observatory Director: scodova@roadrunner.com

The Warren Rupp Observatory houses one of the largest computer-controlled amateur-operated telescopes of it’s type in the world, built around a 31-inch diameter fused quartz mirror finished to an incredible 1/12 wavelength. The mirror was handmade in North Royalton, Ohio, and formed the basis for a mammoth backyard telescope. A neighbor’s “insecurity” light spoiled viewing, however, and a new home was sought. The mirror was at the heart of a fine new telescope housed in an impressive observatory building, atop a hill in dark rural countryside. In 2011 an accident destroyed the treasured mirror. A 36-inch replacement was made and was installed in 2016.

The observatory is open to the public the first Saturday of each month, March through November, weather permitting. The facility is operated by The Richland Astronomical Society and holds its monthly club meetings prior to the public opening. The Warren Rupp Observatory is situated in the beautiful rolling hills of north central Ohio just southeast of Mansfield, on the grounds of Hidden Hollow Camp about 7 miles east of the intersection of State Route 13 and interstate 71 on Possum Run Road. The observatory offers special private observing sessions free of charge to any group by appointment, including scout troops, school field trips, churches, private groups and even families.

Photos by James Guilford