Creighton University Observatory was located on the Creighton University campus in Omaha, Nebraska, United States. It was the first observatory in Omaha, and the second in Nebraska. It was used primarily for the instruction of students, though the directors did do some research in the observatory. The observatory was demolished in late April of 2022 to allow for the construction of a new Jesuit residence hall. Quick facts Construction began: October 6, 1885 Benefactor: John A. Creighton Telescope mounted: May 6, 1886 First telescope: 1884 J. H. Steward & Co. of London, 5" aperture, 84" focal length First light: August 22, 1886 Directors: Father Joseph F. Rigge, S.J. (1883–1894) Father Charles J. Borgmeyer (1894–1895) Father William F. Rigge, S.J. (1895–1927) Father William Doyle, S.J. (1927–1930) Demolished: April 25, 2022 History As part of his endowment to found Creighton University, John A. Creighton donated the money for a telescope made by J.H. Steward & Co. of London. Telescope statistics Aperture – 5 inches Focal length – 84 inches Mount – equatorial, on a brass column on an oak tripod with three large casters Mounting gear – driving clock, graduated circles, clamps and fine adjustment screws on both axes Eyepieces – 7 total (1 terrestrial, 1 diagonal, 5 astronomical) Initial storage – in the chemistry laboratory, rolled out as needed Cost – £125 (approximately US$625) Usage intent – popular and educational use Observatory built Father Joseph F. Rigge, S.J. arrived at Creighton in August 1885. Assuming responsibility for the telescope, he noted that the constant movement of rolling the telescope in and out of its storage space did not allow for accurate usage and was even damaging the telescope. He suggested a small shed with a removable roof. Father Dowling, the university president, was able to secure $1200 from Mr. Creighton for building a proper observatory. Observatory statistics Ground broken – October 6, 1885 Building completion – December 17, 1885 Telescope mounted – May 6, 1886 Pier composition – stone Central pier depth – 6 feet Central pier height from floor – 6 feet Circumference of dome room – 15 feet Observatory demolition As a result of the construction of a new Jesuit residence alongside 24th Street, the observatory was demolished. Portions of the observatory are being repurposed for a memorial. Resources Memoirs of Father William Rigge, S.J. See also List of astronomical observatories References External links Creighton University Creighton University Landmarks