Previous Astronomy

M22, first light of current observatory, taken August 2003 with SBIG ST-7 CCD

2014 SN 2014J in M82

2007 Flare of Theta 2 Ori A

Our observatory captured a flare of Theta 2 Ori A on January 6, 2007. Theta 2 Ori A is a suspected variable with a minor variability over ~3 hours.

Flare of Theta 2 Ori A

1999 Co-Discovery of Minor Planet (102216) Carona

While conducting minor planet observations, A&M Observatory Director Don Carona, SFA graduate Billy Dink McCormack, and SFA professor Dr. Dan Bruton participated in reporting observations of an unknown object that was later confirmed as a new minor planet, 1999 TG04, later assigned the permanent number 102216. In the April 13 2026 issue of its official bulletin, the International Astronomical Union's Working Group for Small Body Nomenclature announced the asteroid would be named after Don Carona. Its designation is now (102216) Carona.

Minor Planet (102216) Carona.

1994 Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 Collision with Jupiter

In July 1994, comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 collided with Jupiter, and the observatory recorded and facilitated public viewings of the event.

Collision of comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 with Jupiter in July 1994 recorded by Don Carona and Dr. Dan Bruton.