Observatory Operations

Director’s Opportunity Network

Join an inner circle of observatory investors who give our director the flexibility to fund new ideas, programs or opportunities that enhance our mission.

Make the Unexpected Possible

The Director’s Opportunity Network (DON) is an opportunity fund that gives Executive Director Dr. Amanda Bosh the flexibility to invest in new ideas, programs or opportunities that enhance astronomical exploration, education or outreach at Lowell Observatory. Funds are often used for unbudgeted opportunities that arise and require near-term action.

DON Member Benefits

Contribution Level: $10,000 per year

Annual meeting with the Director to discuss the current opportunities and challenges facing Lowell Observatory
Networking dinner to meet other DON members and hear from the observatory’s astronomers and staff how DON funds have been invested
Tours of Lowell Observatory’s research facilities and telescopes
Exclusive opportunities to travel (at your own expense) to other observatories around the world

Join the Network

DON members are part of an inner circle of observatory investors who care deeply about the mission of Lowell Observatory and want to see the mission continue for future generations.

Director’s Events

DON Dinner
DON Eclipse Cruise – Details to come!

Programs to Support

Observatory Operations

Annual Fund

Support the areas of greatest need in our day-to-day mission of astronomical research and science education, as well as general operating needs.

Director’s Opportunity Network

Join an inner circle of observatory investors who give our director the flexibility to fund new ideas, programs or opportunities that enhance our mission.

Millenium Fund

Support priority projects to provide funds for the observatory’s ever-changing needs, as identified by the observatory’s director.

Historic Preservation

Karen Kitt Historic Preservation Fund

The Karen Kitt Historic Preservation Fund supports the preservation of Lowell Observatory’s rich collection of historic papers, correspondence, research materials, and instruments through the efforts of the Putnam Collection Center staff and volunteers.

Endowed Mars Hill Fund

Ensure funding in perpetuity for the ongoing enhancement, maintenance, and repair of the facilities and campus on Mars Hill via the Lowell Observatory Foundation.

Capital Projects

Astronomy Discovery Center

Now open, the Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory is a place where curious visitors come to be awed by the cosmos and learn about astronomy.

GODO Endowment Fund

Assure in perpetuity the ongoing care and maintenance of the Giovale Open Deck Observatory structures, telescopes, and exhibits via the Lowell Observatory Foundation.

Education & Outreach

Young Scholars Fund

The Young Scholars Fund supports internships, undergraduate and graduate student research projects, and pre and post doctoral fellowships.

Inspiration Fund

Make Visionary Endeavors Possible

Native American Astronomy Outreach

More than ever, Native Americans are striving to improve education opportunities for their children and for generations to come, and they need your support!

Orbits Curiosity Camp

Ignite a child’s love of science with STEM camp activities that develop children’s observational skills and foster their ability to think critically.

Scientific Research

Funding Astronomical Exploration

As an independent research facility, Lowell Observatory can leverage private donations for the greatest impact on astronomical discovery.

Slipher Society

Jump-start astronomical research with annual investments that fill critical gaps between research grants and other formal funding sources.

Percival Lowell Postdoctoral Fellowship Fund

The Percival Lowell Postdoctoral Fellowship Fund aims to attract the brightest, most innovative, and productive young minds in the fields of astronomy, planetary science, and astronomical instrumentation to Lowell Observatory.

Exploration Fund