The function of our Astrophysical Observatory, located at the only public college on Staten Island, is to support the college in its fulfillment of it's mission by making accessible to the students, the residents of this Island and neighboring metropolitan areas, an active dedicated on-going educational opportunity that speaks to some of the excitement of the future of astronomy, some of the inherent questions of our past about our universe, and some of the environmental needs of the present.

Firstly, the observatory is the highlight of an extended laboratory component of the C.S.I. Astronomy program which serves a significant population of the liberal arts and science majors. The large number of students choosing the study of Astronomy is a reflection of their interest in the fundamental questions of existence. Astronomy casts these inquiries in a scientific context and by its nature, presents the romantic aspect of science in its investigations. Students in the program are able to explore first hand the general characteristics of our Solar System, our Milky Way Galaxy and other Galaxies.

The observatory contributes to an enrichment of one's life by focusing one's thoughts on the modern cosmic perspective. Historically, the progress of a civilization is intimately connected to the cosmological model adopted by a society. The observatory which presents the current viewpoints of our universe will help students free themselves from the yoke of fear and superstition which seems to have gained a strong grip on our culture over the last few decades.