Northwoods Wisconsin

Looking Up.
Moving Forward.

The 46 North Astronomy Center is a non-profit observatory and research campus dedicated to preserving the darkness of the Northwoods.

Recurring Feature

What's Up in the
Northwoods Skies

Each month, we curate a guide specifically for the latitudes of Northern Wisconsin. Explore current and upcoming celestial events, including Solar Maximum updates.

Safety Protocol Active

Check-In Rule

Safety Triple-Check

Solar Max

Aurora Forecasts

Development Roadmap

From First Light to Deep Space Research

Phase 1 | Late 2028

Foundation & First Light

Construction of the primary optical telescope observatory and education/administration facilities. Launch of the Aquila Team youth research residency.

Phase 2 | Expansion 2030

Expanded Outreach Center

Enlarged visitors center, expanded multi-classroom education spaces, and immersive public galleries to become the Northwoods Astronomy and Space Sciences Discovery Hub.

Phase 3 | Dual-Vision 2032

Research Facility Expansion

Installation of a second professional-grade optical telescope to support concurrent research and deep-space tracking.

Phase 4 | Infinite Spectrum

Radio Astronomy Facility

A dedicated radio telescope dish and wire antenna arrays to observe the universe beyond the visible spectrum.

Phase 5 | 2035 & Beyond

Deep Space Longevity

Continue as a globally recognized site for community astronomy and space sciences activities as well as support for youth and adult research projects, supported by a permanent endowment for Northwoods science.

Ongoing

Partnerships with the Community

Creating and expanding partnerships with the communities of the Northwoods including collaborative opportunities related to onsite as well as offsite camping and equestrian activities.

Aquila Team

Flagship Youth Astronomy & Space Sciences Research team.

Express Interest

Adult Volunteers

Community action for campus operations and outreach.

Join the Team

Astronomy Club

Hobbyist group for star parties and advocacy.

Coming Soon

Partners in Science

Request Sponsorship Deck