Buhl Conservatory Upgraded

The Carnegie Science Center's July 4th VIP Extravaganza will provide insiders with the first look at some of the newest improvements to the Henry Buhl, Jr. Observatory. Renovations were made possible through a $200,000 donation from Bob and Joan Peirce of Sewickley and include the transformation of a fifth-floor storage area to a fully compatible education center. The fifth floor is now equipped with educational materials including a 52-inch plasma screen TV and will be used for special programs, astronomy classes, and can be rented out. Perhaps the biggest improvement to the observatory is the technological addition that now allows the telescope's view to be projected into the Buhl Digital Dome. Carnegie Science Center Director of Visitor Experience John Radzilowicz says the new technology will enable the the observatory to accommodate larger crowds when there are special astronomical events. In February, a lunar eclipse drew over 150 people to the observatory.