Special Events
See the Moon, Planets, and More through a Big Telescope!
Throughout the year, weather permitting, Yerkes Observatory offers evening observing sessions for adults and kids aged ten and up. Participants get to look at a variety of fascinating celestial objects through a large, modern 24-inch diameter telescope.Throughout February, brilliant Jupiter and up to four of its moons (see above) rule the night sky. Brilliant Venus and bluish Uranus are visible throughout February, along with the ghostly green Orion Nebula, M42. The Moon will be particularly nice to observe the first and last weeks in February. .
Programs begin at 6:30 p.m. and run until 8:00 p.m. The dates, but only if weather permits, are February 1, 2, 3, 11, 17, 18, 28, and 29, and, you must make a reservation.
Participants begin outside with a brief introduction to the night sky as seen with the unaided eye. From the reasonably dark confines of Yerkes Observatory one may get superb views of constellations, hundreds of stars, the Milky Way, and occasional sporadic meteors, auroral activity, and, sightings of the International Space Station and other satellites.
After observing outside, participants must climb thirty-nine steps up a spiral staircase into the NE dome that houses the 24-inch reflector. All are advised to wear sensible shoes and warm clothes as Wisconsin winters are liable to be quite chilly, and the dome interior is unheated!
The charge is $25 per person. No more than ten are permitted per session. We accept cash, checks, or VISA/Mastercard, payable the night of the event. To make a reservation, contact Richard Dreiser via email at rdd@yerkes.uchicago.edu You may also call weekdays at 262 245-5555, ext. 880.
March 24-inch telescope observing dates will become available in late February.