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

Astrophysics & Space Physics Seminar - Dr. Aaron West; School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Minnesota promotional image

Astrophysics & Space Physics Seminar - Dr. Aaron West; School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Minnesota

Wednesday, May 27, 2026 2:00pm to 3:00pm
Van Allen Hall
Astrophysics & Space Physics Seminar
Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory promotional image

Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory

Friday, June 5, 2026 9:00pm to 11:00pm
Van Allen Hall

Please join the University of Iowa Physics and 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.

Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory promotional image

Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory

Friday, June 19, 2026 9:00pm to 11:00pm
Van Allen Hall

Please join the University of Iowa Physics and 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.