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Lowell Observatory reopens to the public next month

By Nicholas Gerbis
Published: Thursday, October 21, 2021 - 2:04pm

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Lowell Observatory
Lowell Observatory
Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff.

After closing its doors 20 months ago due to COVID-19 concerns, Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff will reopen for general admission on Nov. 15.

Lowell closed to all but limited programs less than one month after celebrating the 90th anniversary of Pluto's discovery there, and amid construction of a $29 million expansion.

Visitors ages 12 and older will need to produce proof of vaccination or of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of their visit.

Younger children must wear masks while indoors until vaccines become available to them.

Director Jeff Hall says the observatory will reopen without restrictions once the Delta numbers subside to endemic levels.

All public-facing staff are fully vaccinated.

Lowell Observatory.
Architect's rendering of the planned Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory.

Coronavirus Science