The international latitude observatories were a system of six locations near the parallel of 39° north latitude. They were used to measure the variation in latitude that occurs as a result of the wobble of the earth and its polar axis before the use of satellite technology became a more effective tool for observation.
There are two international latitude observatories in the United States the one located in Ukiah and another in Gaithersburg Maryland. Although the system is not widely used anymore, it represents a distinctive point in scientific history and innovation.
The park features a planet walk, a scale model of the solar system that fits within the boundaries of the walking path inside the park. There is also a restored labyrinth, the original observatory structure, and a newly-relaunched Interpretive Center.
The city hosts several exciting and educational events at the park. The tours of earth and sky lecture series are held at the Ukiah Civic Center and feature guest speakers talking about astronomy and natural sciences. There are also docent tours of the observatory in Park they can be scheduled by appointment. The park also welcomes amateur astronomers to bring their telescopes for open skies nights when they can share knowledge and observations.
MORE INFO: www.facebook.com/UkiahLatitudeObservatory
