Welcome to the Van Allen Observatory website. The University of Iowa Department of Physics and Astronomy maintains these pages as a guide to the Van Allen Observatory (VAO) located on the roof of Van Allen Hall in downtown Iowa City.

View of Phillips, Van Allen, Biology Buildings via Drone Sept 2021

Events

Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory promotional image

Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory

Friday, July 11, 2025 9:00pm to 11:00pm
Van Allen Hall
Please join the University of Iowa Physics & Astronomy Department as we use the Van Allen Observatory and small telescopes to tour the summer sky. To attend this Astronomy observation session, follow the signs in Van Allen Hall to the east elevator to reach the roof or visit the southeast lawn.
Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory promotional image

Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory

Friday, July 25, 2025 9:00pm to 11:00pm
Van Allen Hall
Please join the University of Iowa Physics & Astronomy Department as we use the Van Allen Observatory and small telescopes to tour the summer sky. To attend this Astronomy observation session, follow the signs in Van Allen Hall to the east elevator to reach the roof or visit the southeast lawn.
Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory promotional image

Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory

Friday, August 8, 2025 9:00pm to 11:00pm
Van Allen Hall
Please join the University of Iowa Physics & Astronomy Department as we use the Van Allen Observatory and small telescopes to tour the summer sky. To attend this Astronomy observation session, follow the signs in Van Allen Hall to the east elevator to reach the roof or visit the southeast lawn.