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.

Please note that due to summer 2024 Van Allen Hall roof renovations, the Van Allen Observatory will be closed for summer 2024.

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, March 21, 2025 8:00pm to 10:00pm
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 spring sky. To attend this Astronomy observation session, follow the signs in Van Allen Hall to reach the roof. 
Physics & Astronomy Thesis Defense Seminar: Michael Hite promotional image

Physics & Astronomy Thesis Defense Seminar: Michael Hite

Friday, March 28, 2025 1:00pm
Van Allen Hall
Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory promotional image

Public Observing Night - Van Allen Observatory

Friday, April 4, 2025 8:00pm to 10:00pm
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 spring sky. To attend this Astronomy observation session, follow the signs in Van Allen Hall to reach the roof.