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.
Asteroid (99862) Kenlevin
In recognition of contributions to astronomy, asteroid 2002 OD2 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 OD2
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 ObservatoriesTexas Astronomical Society Dark Site (TAS)
UpgradingCaddo, 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 SocietyPublications & Media
Washington Post Newspaper Article
Featured article about amateur astronomy work
Ken Levin was featured in the Washington Post for his work in amateur astronomy and astrophotography from his home observatory.
View newspaper article