This message is for Elissa Gross, Jason Harris, and all others who suggested in Wespeaks or in WSA emails that more lighting be added to the Observatory Circle.
How do you think East Asian studies would feel if a device were installed in the Language Lab that generated a loud, piercing, high-pitched noise at all times? How do you think the psychology department would feel if we knocked down Judd Hall?
This is essentially what you are suggesting be done to the Van Vleck Observatory, which houses one of the most productive research programs at this University.
I have read the report sent out to the student body about the lighting tour held last week. I was pleased to note that no additional lighting was planned for the observatory area. However, I still feel that it is important for people to realize that the darkened 50-foot radius around the observatory does not exist due to administrative negligence, but rather due to a conscious decision not to impair the operation of the research telescopes located there. I can assure that it’s possible to walk 30 seconds out of your way to avoid that area, if it’s a concern for you.
Please try to be sensitive to the academic needs of others before trying to lead the charge for something like this.
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