Beginning in early 2024, Schoonover Observatory will be undergoing renovations with funding provided by a grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Parks District, and the City of Lima.

The Lima Astronomical Society is fortunate to operate Schoonover Observatory.

Built in 1964 with an Ash Dome, the observatory was made possible through the philanthropy of the Schoonover family and the support of the City of Lima, Ohio. The observatory was donated to the City of Lima upon completion, and is maintained by the city’s Division of Parks, Recreation, & Forestry. The club has provided volunteer staffing, operations, and programming at the observatory since its completion in 1964, and serves as the club’s “home base” of operations.

Countless visitors have observed the marvels of the cosmos under the dome, and the meeting room downstairs has been host to a diverse variety of programs and speakers, generations of club members, and an immeasurable amount of education and camaraderie.