The Cincinnati Observatory Welcomes New Astronomer 

By Mary Casey-Sturk

Mount Lookout is home to the Cincinnati Observatory, founded in 1843 and known as the “Birthplace of American Astronomy.” 

The Observatory’s telescope has always been close to the hearts of Cincinnatians, who rallied together to raise the money to buy it when Cincinnati professor Ormsby MacKnight Mitchel led the charge in 1842. Opened in its original location on Mt. Ida (now Mt. Adams) in November of 1843, it was moved to its current location in 1873 to avoid downtown pollution. Today’s Observatory offers a wide array of events and programs throughout the year. 

In May, the Observatory announced that Dr. Wes Ryle has joined their team as the new astronomer. Dr. Ryle has been a regular presenter and volunteer at the Observatory since 2014 and has been a professor of physics and the director of The Thomas More University Observatory since 2008. 

Meet Dr. Wes Ryle

A Northern Kentucky native, Dr. Ryle sat down with Hyde Park Living Magazine to discuss his new role and more.  

HPL: When did you first become interested in astronomy? 

Ryle shared, “It was always a childhood interest, almost everybody has a childhood interest in astronomy, mine just never went away!” 

He added, “I was also influenced by one book in particular. Our Universe from National Geographic, was a favorite of mine. I read it over and over.

“I always had astronomy in the back of my head, but when I went to college, I decided to study physics [attending Western Kentucky University (WKU)]. One of the first things I learned in the physics department at WKU is that they allowed students to become telescope operators. They had an observatory about 15 miles away from campus, and students were allowed to operate it remotely from campus. I fell in love with that idea and that’s when the thought of becoming a professional astronomer entered my mind.”

Ryle also attended Georgia State University (Atlanta) for his graduate work and was able to gain experience at observatories in Arizona (the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff), California and more.

HPL: For our young readers, what should a budding astronomer do to prepare for a career?  

“If they are interested in being a professional astronomer, read up about it as much as you can, beef up your math skills. Much of the work is based on math and physics. You’ll need science and math skills.” 

Ryle continued, “Professional astronomers don’t necessarily need to have a lot of telescope skills, typically you are controlling the telescope through a computer.”

Ryle recommends visiting the Cincinnati Observatory for its array of programs and exhibitions, including “Women at the Observatory” recognizing the important contributions of women throughout the years to the Observatory and science. Public classes are returning, too, which will be a three-part series focusing on different topics. 

HPL: What is something that has surprised you about your new role so far?

“One of things I never expected when I decided to pursue astronomy as a career was that I would have the ability to do this at home. Most of the jobs are abroad, I never expected to be able to share my passions with my community. First with my position at Thomas More University, and now here, I am really grateful,” Dr. Ryle said. 

Ongoing programs at the Observatory include: 

Sunday History Tours offer up a chance to learn more about the history of the Observatory via an in-depth guided tour. You’ll learn about how and why the Observatory was founded, their role in weather forecasting and timekeeping, and more! Aimed at those 12 and up.

What happens behind the scenes at the Observatory and other questions will be answered at Family Astronomy Nights, which include a tour of the buildings and the opportunity to view the stars through the historic telescopes. Geared for families with kids 5-12 years old.

Looking for a little romance? Late Night, Date Night might be the ticket. This popular evening offers the chance to see what the Observatory is like after hours. You’ll be able to use telescopes, get a sneak preview of upcoming astrological events and have bragging rights to what might be the best date ever!

Dr. Ryle also mentioned other programs coming later this year including Planet Nights featuring Saturn Day (September 14), Super Moon Night (October 17) and Jupiter Night (December 7). Celestial Sips (yes, stars and wine!) takes place on September 28^th.

For more information about programs and events at the Cincinnati Observatory, visit www.cincinnatiobservatory.org