by Chad Jocius | Feb 21, 2024 | Observatory, Observatory Events, Repeating
Thursdays, (March 7, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm), (March 14, 21, 28, 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm)
Experience the awe-inspiring “Through the Lens” event at The Heide Observatory, where celestial wonders come to life. Peer into the depths of the universe using our powerful 17-inch telescope, taking turns to observe binary stars, elusive planets, ethereal galaxies, and an array of captivating celestial objects. As you await your individual view inside the observatory dome, join our knowledgeable guides outside under the stars for a guided sky tour. Gain a broader perspective and deepen your appreciation of the universe as you absorb the enchanting panorama of the night sky, connecting the dots between what you witness through the lens and the grand tapestry of the cosmos.
These events are weather-dependent and will be rescheduled by e-mail 24 hours before scheduled if the cloud cover forecast is greater than 40%, or too few tickets are sold to fund the event staffing.
If you have not heard from us prior to the event please check your spam folder in email.
Dress appropriately for nighttime outdoor weather.
Purchase tickets here or email observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
by Chad Jocius | Feb 21, 2024 | Observatory, Observatory Events, Repeating
Fridays, (March 8, 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm), (March 15, 22, 29, 7:00pm – 8:30 pm)
Join us for a captivating astronomical adventure at The Heide Observatory with our “Small Eyes Under the Skies” event, perfect for the whole family. Explore the wonders of our solar system as we embark on an interactive journey across the meadow, investigating the sizes and distances of our nearest celestial neighbors. Following this engaging experience, prepare for an unforgettable telescope adventure where you’ll witness the beauty of planets and other extraordinary celestial objects up close. With limited space available, be sure to secure your tickets early to guarantee a spot for this stellar exploration.
In the event of cloud cover of more than 40% or too few tickets are sold to fund staffing for the event, we will reschedule. Look for a confirmation email at least 24 hours prior to the event date.
If you have not heard from us prior to the event please check your spam folder in email.
Contact observatory@hawthornhollow.org for group/family rate discounts.
Please remember to dress appropriately for an outdoor trek through the solar system (the field).
Purchase tickets here or email observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
by Chad Jocius | Feb 21, 2024 | Education, Observatory, Observatory Events, Repeating
Wednesdays, (March 6, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm), (March 13, 20, 27 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm)
Indulge in the ultimate sensory experience at “Wine Wednesday Under the Stars” hosted at the Heide Observatory. Sink blissfully into a zero-gravity chair with your favorite wine or beverage in hand, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the night sky. Our expert guides will illuminate celestial wonders using a laser pointer, revealing stars, planets, constellations, galaxies, and other captivating objects of interest. Immerse yourself in the enthralling stories of these objects as we unravel their relationships and delve into their deeper significance. Sip, gaze, and savor the enchantment of the cosmos in this unique and relaxing evening under the stars.
These events are weather-dependent and will be rescheduled by e-mail 24 hours before scheduled if the cloud cover forecast is greater than 40% or too few tickets are sold to fund the event staffing.
If you have not heard from us prior to the event please check your spam folder in email.
Dress appropriately for nighttime outdoor weather.
Purchase tickets here or email observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
by Chad Jocius | Feb 13, 2024 | Observatory, Observatory Events, One-Time
Sunday (Apr. 21) 9:00 pm – 11:00 pm (SOLD OUT) or 11:30 pm – 1:30 am
The Lyrids appear in Chinese writing dating back to roughly 690 BCE, making them one of the earliest meteor showers on record. On the night of April 21, the annual shower will reach its near peak for 2023. The meteor shower is a result of Earth passing through the tail of the comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher. When our planet moves through this debris field, the space rocks burn up in Earth’s atmosphere, causing spectacular lights to streak across the night sky.
The Lyrids are one of the weaker annual meteor showers visible from Earth. On peak nights, they usually produce no more than 20 shooting stars per hour. The event is also unpredictable: On rare occasions, spectators are treated to incredible surges of up to 100 meteors per hour. For this reason, the Lyrids are worth checking out for diehard astronomy enthusiasts.
Come out to the Heide Observatory and enjoy a relaxing evening in our anti-gravity chairs as we point out the night-sky objects and watch for meteors.
This event is weather-dependent and will be canceled or rescheduled by e-mail 24 hours before the scheduled start time in the event of a cloud cover forecast greater than 30%. Reservations can be transferred for any other nightly observatory event.
Dress appropriately for being still in nighttime outdoor weather.
Questions? Feel free to contact us at observatory@hawthornhollow.org
Tickets for second session (11:30 pm – 1:30 am) here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/884175742447
by Chad Jocius | Feb 12, 2024 | Observatory, Observatory Events, One-Time
Monday, April 8 (12:30 pm – 3:00 pm)
Save the date – April 8, 2024 – for an extraordinary celestial event as a total solar eclipse graces North America, traversing across Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Witness the magic unfold as the Moon positions itself perfectly between the Sun and Earth, creating a breathtaking shadow that temporarily darkens the sky, reminiscent of a dawn or dusk experience.
In Wisconsin, we’re gearing up for a remarkable 90% eclipse, ensuring a safe and memorable experience for all. Our preparations include an array of devices and solar telescopes, guaranteeing that everyone can marvel at this celestial phenomenon without compromising safety. Join us on this cosmic journey as we explore the historical and cultural significance of total solar eclipses over time.
This event requires tickets, but they are solely based on donations to sustain the operational needs of the observatory. Your donation (which covers one ticket) is greatly appreciated. Kindly reach out to us at Observatory@hawthornhollow.org to confirm the number of reservations you’d like to make.
Reserve your tickets here!
Incase of inclimate weather or cloud cover we will be live streaming the event inside the Nature Center at Hawthorn Hollow.
