Drake Municipal Observatory
A 1921 limestone observatory hidden inside a public golf course, where the cremated ashes of astronomer Daniel Morehouse — who discovered Comet Morehouse in 1908 — and his wife Myrtle are interred inside the rotunda wall, marked by a plaque. Students working the historic 8.25-inch refractor have reported flickering lights, doors bursting open, and cold spots, including incidents witnessed by longtime lecturer Herb Schwartz. Free public lecture-and-viewing nights run Friday evenings spring through fall.
The move: Go to a free Friday public night, sit through the 8 PM astronomy lecture, then take turns at the historic refractor under the dome — and find the rotunda plaque marking where Morehouse's ashes are sealed in the wall.
- 📍 Drake
- 💸 Free
- ⚡ Low-key
- 🌗 Indoor or outdoor
Where: 4898 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311 (inside Waveland Golf Course, between the 17th green and 18th tee)
Hours: Free public programs Friday nights, spring through autumn, weather permitting; 8 PM lecture followed by telescope viewing. Closed in winter. Confirm schedule on Drake's observatory page.
Plan a visit & invite your people →
Verified 2026-06-06.