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  3. The Friedman Observatory

About the Friedmans

Pauline and Sydney Friedman

Sidney and Pauline Friedman have been long-time supports of Penn State University, particularly the Penn State Wilkes-Barre campus. Since 1985, the Friedmans have engaged in a number of projects to bring advanced technology resources to Penn State students. 

One of the projects closest to their hearts is the Friedman Observatory at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. By establishing the first observatory in the area, they felt that they could offer students a rare opportunity to expand the way they understood the universe and themselves. They also believed that an observatory would be important for the wider community, offering an exciting educational resource for students from other institutions, children, and adults.

Additionally, with the opening of the Abram Nesbitt Academic Commons in 2008, the Friedmans gifted the campus with the Friedman Art Gallery. The gallery is a space in the Academic Commons to display the work of students and local artists, as well as private collections.

Pauline Friedman served on the campus advisory board and was the recipient of the Phillip Mitchell Alumni Service Award. Although Pauline passed away in December 2008, the generosity and commitment she and Sidney have shown towards Penn State Wilkes-Barre will continue to be felt and appreciated for years to come.

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Friedman Observatory

Primary Contact:
Jon Belanger
Observatory Assistant
email: [email protected]
phone: (240) 344-9736

Coordinator:
Dr. Violet Mager
Assistant Professor of Physics
office: Science Center 111
phone: (570) 675-9278
email: [email protected]

Meet Our Staff

Related Articles:

The Orion Nebula, as taken from the Friedman Observatory

Students participate in research at the Friedman Observatory

Map of Pennsylvania showing Penn State’s 24 locations with Penn State Wilkes-Barre highlighted.

Penn State Wilkes‑Barre

Located on a scenic estate just 13 miles from Wilkes-Barre, Penn State Wilkes-Barre offers four-year baccalaureate degree programs, two-year associate degree programs, and a wide range of professional develop­ment oppor­tunities. Our small classes encourage close inter­action with professors who are committed to helping you be successful.
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