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Summer 2025


Sam Houston State University Dominey Observatory

Brazos Valley Astronomy Club Visits
The Sam Houston State University Dominey Observatory

By Randall Light, MD

On Saturday, August 23, 2025, members of the Brazos Valley Astronomy Club visited the Dominey Observatory. We were hosted by Joel Walker, Chair of Physics & Astronomy, and Mike Prokosch, Public Outreach Director. A group of members had dinner and visited with our hosts at the City Hall Café before going out to their new observatory.

The observatory is equipped with a PlaneWave Instruments corrected Dall-Kirkham 700 mm objective, 4540 mm focal length, f/6.5 telescope on an integrated direct drive mount. The telescope is configured for both observing and astrophotography. The camera is an SBig STXL-6303E monochrome camera with a filter wheel. The dome is motorized and moves to keep the mount centered.

What We Saw

When we arrived at the observatory, the skies were clear. The group was given a tour of the facility followed by observing a series of objects. These included:

  • Albireo, a double star
  • Wild Duck Cluster
  • M11
  • Ring Nebula
  • M57
  • Whirlpool Galaxy
  • M51
  • M20, the Trifid Nebula

We were shown astro-photos made there.

We were very grateful for the opportunity to visit the Dominey Observatory.

Observing Deep Space Objects

Telescope aimed at target

Telescope aimed at astronomical target

James Dire at telescope controls

James Dire at telescope controls


Tim Logan looking at astronomical target

Tim Logan looking at astronomical target

Bethany looking at astronomical target

Bethany looking at astronomical target


Randall Light MD

About the Author: Randall Light, MD
Randall Light is a retired medical neurologist who became a photographer in 1979 and an astrophotographer in 2013 when he retired. He has written articles, given talks, and received awards for his astrophotography.

Website: https://RandallLight.com