The observatory is located on Skinnersville Road, a short distance from the Ellicott Complex that houses many students, and across the street from the Creekside Apartments.  Skinnersville Road is also easily accessed from Sweethome Road.  This puts the observatory in a convenient place for both students living on campus and members of the community located off campus.

This location also distances the observatory from the light pollution that originates on the academic spine.  This allows for darker skies with enhanced visibility in comparison to other locations on campus.