The Urban Observatory (UO) at NYU’s Center for Urban Science+Progress (CUSP) is a unique user facility for the large-scale observation and analysis of cities. Vantage points in NYC will support persistent and synoptic remote sensing in diverse modalities including visible, infrared, and hyperspectral imaging, as well as LIDAR and RADAR. The data acquired will be combined with correlative records, in situ, and overhead data to enhance our fundamental understanding of urban infrastructure, environment, and population. The CUSP-UO’s methodologies, instrumentation, and data science capabilities will underpin novel, high-impact science, as well as applications to enhance public well-being, city operations, and future urban design.