ABSTRACT: This research analyzes the astronomical orientation of temples following the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The objective is to document and analyze the orientation of each temple based on its architectural features to determine orientation angles. A specific pattern in connection to the ancient Jewish tabernacle alignment of carnal directions of West and East will be carefully noted and analyzed in comparison to the more temporary Christian alignments.  As both religions influence the Latter-Day Saint tradition, we will determine which religious orientation is observed more.  Only temples that have been fully constructed and dedicated by ecclesiastical leadership will be studied. The orientation will be analyzed using archeoastronomy research methods and means. The data will be collected in an excel document and then summarized, along with other observations regarding the architectural elements. Both interior and exterior elements will be examined, such as ornament, sacred room location, tower number and placement, and inscriptions. We expect a variety of orientations as each temple’s site and location range from around the world, with most orientations facing East or West. The multiplicity of temple analyses will help establish an overall average pattern in orientation, allowing for a more generalized conclusion.  Analyzing the specific architectural elements will also add increased evidence to intentions for alignment. Future analysis will need to be conducted to accommodate the continual addition of temples that are constructed and dedicated.  The continual data and analysis of this research project will inform overall patterns of orientation and insight into the ever-expanding church and its connection with astro-architectural alignments.

CITATION: Ritchie, Desiree, Jake Wendt, and Brandon Ro, “Turning Towards the Lord: Latter-Day Saint Temple Astro-Architectural Orientation.” Poster presented at the 2024 Utah Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters annual conference, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, March 23, 2024.