Today, astronomers use the 40-inch refractor at Yerkes to measure the motion and distance of nearby stars. Studying stellar atmospheres helps astrophysicists determine the age of stars within the Milky Way galaxy. And studying distant galaxies and quasars outside our galaxy reveals information about physical processes and the formation, changes and possible fate of our universe. The large dome is unheated to prevent rising warm air from interfering with ongoing research. Although pleasantly cool in the summer, the dome interior is very cold in the winter, so please dress appropriately.
Several displays adorn the halls.
At the sales counter one may purchase a variety of slides, postcards, booklets, constellation finders and guides to the nighttime sky. This is the site of today's Fontana. As in the time of the Potawatomi, Fontana is the friendly village with a myriad of opportunities for a memorable vacation or to live with nature's beauty. Fontana is home to The Abbey Resort and Fontana Spa, one of the area s finest resorts, and heaven to fishermen and water sport lovers. It is enriched with three churches, an excellent school system, and a comfortable library which has unlimited resources.