The Forgotten Vermillion River Observatory

Settled in a valley on the Vermillion River to the South of Danville, once lay a massive 400-foot-long radio telescope that operated for over 20 years. Professionals didn't construct this enormous endeavor, but rather UIUC students, staff, and volunteers. The volunteer construction team was able to complete the site in just a few months, and the VRO (Vermillion River Observatory) was first activated in 1959. Learn the story of this forgotten part of our region's astronomical history in this upcoming history talk on October 16th at 7pm at the History Museum!