Voices for Accessible Astronomy ~ Save Our Observatory!


Voices for Accessible Astronomy ~ Save Our Observatory!
The Issue
Protect and Preserve our Historical Observatory!
For the past 50 years, our on-campus observatory at Diablo Valley College has played a crucial role in making the wonders of astronomy accessible to students and locals alike.
Here, many students, including myself, have had our first hands-on experience with telescopes and conducted our first ever research projects.
At our observing nights, it is the first time for countless individuals to behold wonders far too distant to see with our naked eye.
This facility has not only inspired astronomers and others alike, it has been a launchpad for pathways in astronomy and other fields of STEM and STEM outreach.
Unfortunately, our observatory is scheduled for demolition this upcoming summer due to issues with ADA access compliance. If you think we should save, protect, and upgrade our invaluable and historic observatory to modern day accessibility standards instead of demolition, sign our petition to save our observatory!
Link to our newspaper's article on the matter (October, 2025) https://www.dvcinquirer.com/af/2025/10/21/astronomy-department-touts-planetarium-upgrades-amid-impending-loss-of-observatory/
Additional links statements on the matter from fellow students, professors, professionals, and myself.
Statements for Accessible Astronomy ~ Students and Petition Author
Statements for Accessible Astronomy ~ Professors and Professionals
Included photos taken by Jesus Ochoa, DVC Alumni, at DVC's Observatory

362
The Issue
Protect and Preserve our Historical Observatory!
For the past 50 years, our on-campus observatory at Diablo Valley College has played a crucial role in making the wonders of astronomy accessible to students and locals alike.
Here, many students, including myself, have had our first hands-on experience with telescopes and conducted our first ever research projects.
At our observing nights, it is the first time for countless individuals to behold wonders far too distant to see with our naked eye.
This facility has not only inspired astronomers and others alike, it has been a launchpad for pathways in astronomy and other fields of STEM and STEM outreach.
Unfortunately, our observatory is scheduled for demolition this upcoming summer due to issues with ADA access compliance. If you think we should save, protect, and upgrade our invaluable and historic observatory to modern day accessibility standards instead of demolition, sign our petition to save our observatory!
Link to our newspaper's article on the matter (October, 2025) https://www.dvcinquirer.com/af/2025/10/21/astronomy-department-touts-planetarium-upgrades-amid-impending-loss-of-observatory/
Additional links statements on the matter from fellow students, professors, professionals, and myself.
Statements for Accessible Astronomy ~ Students and Petition Author
Statements for Accessible Astronomy ~ Professors and Professionals
Included photos taken by Jesus Ochoa, DVC Alumni, at DVC's Observatory

362
The Decision Makers
Supporter Voices
Share this petition
Petition created on February 14, 2026