New observatory sets sights on community, educational outreach The Gaston Gazette After selling property in Myrtle Beach, Chris Ayers and Vicky Willis Ayers turned to land that's been in the Willis family for a long time, but not to build their dream home. Instead, on Bear Creek Road between Bakersville and Spruce Pine, they built an observatory, a place to use the latest technology to glimpse the universe in an area of dark skies nestled between three ridges where Vicky Ayers' grandfather used to mine, preach and shoe horses. With money from the sale of the property, they've made it one of the best observatories in the Southeastern US, according to Chris Ayers, who hopes it isn't just a place to stargaze, but a gathering place for the community and a resource to help students dive into astronomy and science.