About

Ken Levin

Ken Levin (b. 1953) is a physicist who works in the field of infrared optics and sensors for application in medicine, aerospace and astronomy. Levin is an avid amateur astronomer and operates two private observatories.

All images on this website are original work, captured using personal telescopes and CCD cameras from home observatories and remote imaging facilities. The journey of astronomical imaging began in Silver Spring, Maryland, and has expanded to include remote observatories with darker skies.

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Asteroid (99862) Kenlevin

In recognition of contributions to astronomy, asteroid 2002 OD25 was officially named "Kenlevin" by the International Astronomical Union.

"Ken Levin (b. 1953) is a physicist who works in the field of infrared optics and sensors for application in medicine, aerospace and astronomy. Levin is an avid amateur astronomer and operates two private observatories."

(99862) "Kenlevin" = 2002 OD25

Observatory History

Silver Spring Observatory (H85)

Silver Spring, Maryland

The original home observatory where the astronomical imaging journey began. Located in the backyard of a suburban home, despite light pollution challenges, many deep sky images were captured here.

Blackbird Observatory (BBO)

Cloudcroft, New Mexico

A remote observatory established near Cloudcroft, New Mexico, taking advantage of the darker skies and better seeing conditions of the American Southwest. This facility significantly expanded imaging capabilities.

Concordia University

Irvine, California

Current location. Continuing astronomical work and imaging from Southern California.

Sierra Remote Observatories (SRO)

Sierra Nevada, California

Current remote imaging facility. Sierra Remote Observatories provides professional-grade infrastructure with excellent dark skies for amateur astronomers to conduct high-quality imaging.

Visit Sierra Remote Observatories

Texas Astronomical Society Dark Site (TAS)

Upgrading

Caddo, Oklahoma

Our newest observatory is located at the Texas Astronomical Society's dark site in Caddo, Oklahoma. It is remotely operated and will be used by the TAS Teen Group for their research projects. Check back later for their exciting results!

Visit Texas Astronomical Society

Star Parties & Visual Observing

Before the CCD cameras and remote observatories, there were star parties and a big Dobsonian. On October 18, 1990 the Astronomical League recognized Ken, through the Westminster Astronomical Society, for observing 70 or more Messier objects.