ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute announced Thursday that its 192-acre grounds and buildings are listed for sale for $30 million, but said the potential transaction will not affect its educational or research programs.
According to a listing posted on NAI Piedmont Triad, the site, built in 1963, features more than 30 buildings, including a welcome center, library, exhibits, dormitories and staff housing, and dining facilities.
PARI, a nonprofit STEM education and space science research organization, said it will remain fully staffed and open to visitors, offering its usual educational programming and outreach.
While the listing describes a full sale of the property, the institute said partial sales or leases are also possible. Any transfer of ownership must be approved by PARI’s board of directors and the North Carolina State Attorney General.
“We are confident that they have the preservation of PARI’s mission as their top priority,” the institute said in a statement on social media.
The site, which has served as a NASA ground station, a Department of Defense facility, and now a center for STEM learning and research, has been owned by PARI since 1998 — marking the organization’s STEM mission as the longest-serving role in its history.
“The decision to offer some or all of the property for sale was made to help give PARI the flexibility and resources to continue this mission for decades to come,” the statement said.
PARI said its museum collections, archives, exhibits and learning resources will remain available to the public, and its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status will not be affected.
The institute invited the public to its upcoming open house on Saturday, Nov. 1, and encouraged visitors to view its events calendar or click here to learn more about its offerings.
“Though our physical footprint may change, we will still be providing the engaging and exciting experiences you’ve grown to expect from us,” the statement said.