Belk Astronomical Observatory

Belk Astronomical Observatory

Discover the Universe from the Blue Ridge

Perched 960 feet above sea level on the grounds of Claytor Nature Center, the Belk Astronomical Observatory offers one of the best night-sky views in Virginia. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a lifelong stargazer, you’re invited to look up, explore, and experience the cosmos.

The observatory was named in recognition of Irwin Belk, a former North Carolina state senator from Charlotte, for his support and contributions.

Celestron CPC 800 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes illuminated by red light outdoors at night
A woman looking through an astronomical binocular outdoors

What You’ll See

On clear nights, the observatory’s powerful telescopes reveal the craters of the moon, Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s storms, distant star clusters, and entire galaxies.

The observatory features the 20-inch Gilbert Telescope, a research-grade instrument modeled after Hubble’s design, used for astrophotography and University research. Visitors also explore the skies with portable Celestron telescopes, a 13-inch Dobsonian for deep-sky viewing, solar telescopes for daytime observation, and binoculars for wide-field stargazing.

Ways to Visit

Book Today
A woman looking through a telescope outdoors

Public Events

Experience the wonder of the night sky during open community programs held throughout the year.

Join us for Open Houses, Daytime Sky Series, and Night Sky Parties, where you can view celestial objects through multiple telescopes, enjoy guided tours, and learn from astronomers. Events are posted on Claytor Nature Center website and our Facebook page.

University of Lynchburg Astronomy students watching the sunset at Cloverlea Farmhouse and Memorial Gardens using Solar filter glasses, and measuring a to-scale model of our Solar System out at the Belk Observatory - University of Lynchburg planet walk!

Private Group Programs

Book a custom observatory experience for your class or group.

Designed for students in grades nine-12 and lifelong learners alike, these 1.5-hour sessions combine a themed presentation with telescope viewing, hands-on exploration, and discussion. Programs align with Virginia school science standards and can be tailored to your topic of interest.

Group rates are $150 for up to 15 students and two teachers, and $200 for up to 20 students plus three teachers.

What to Expect

Location

At the top of Claytor Nature Center, near Bedford, Virginia.

Weather

Events are held only under clear or partly cloudy skies. Cancellations announced by 3 p.m. the day of the program.

Accessibility

Viewing areas are equipped with multiple stations; staff can assist as needed.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes, layers for cool evenings, and a red-light flashlight. No white lights allowed.

FAQ

How often do you have observatory programs?

We usually host a couple per month, depending on the weather and what’s visible. We try for a Daytime Sky Series event and an Open House each month.

Links appear with each program description. Ticket requests open at 9 a.m. on the first day of the month of the program. Every attendee, including children, must have a ticket.

If you have trouble accessing tickets, email [email protected].

Each person may reserve up to four tickets. Only 20 total spots are available per program to ensure everyone gets telescope time.

Most are free. We encourage donations to support the maintenance and outreach of our telescope. Gifts can be made at events or online to the Neal G. and Jane C. Sumerlin Observatory Support Fund.

You’ll get a confirmation email within five business days. If you don’t receive one, contact [email protected].

What if I can't attend?

Please email us or redistribute your tickets. Guests who don’t show up without notice may lose reservation privileges for future events.

If skies are fully cloudy or rain is likely, the event may be canceled. We decide by 3 p.m. and notify guests by 5 p.m. Updates are also posted on our Facebook page.

Depending on the season, you might view the moon, planets, star clusters, galaxies, or nebulae. Programs include multiple telescope stations, allowing everyone to explore and ask questions.

Events last 45 minutes to two hours. All ages are welcome. Some telescopes are accessed by stairs, but volunteers can help. Short walks between stations may be included.

Yes. Limited evening programs are available for schools, scouts, and clubs. Email [email protected] for details.

Support the Observatory

Your gift helps maintain our telescopes, expand educational programs, and keep public events free and accessible.

When giving online, choose one of the following options from the dropdown menu:

  • Bernadette K. Kyle Astronomical Observatory Fund: Supports the observatory’s operations and educational outreach.
  • Neal G. and Jane C. Sumerlin Fund: Provides long-term support for observatory maintenance and equipment.
  • Restricted Observatory Gifts: Allows targeted giving for specific observatory projects or improvements.
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