Adult Astronomy June 2024

Adult Astronomy June 2024

Saturday June 1 & 15 (9:00 pm – 11:00 pm)

Are you eager to deepen your understanding of the night sky? Join our two-night Adult Astronomy class on the first and third Saturdays in June! In this engaging course, you’ll explore the layout of the celestial sphere, identify the ten brightest stars, and recognize important star patterns. We’ll also cover Moon rise and set patterns with phases, major visible constellations, and the brightness scale for observation. Additionally, you’ll learn about distances in space and the methods astronomers use to measure them.

This class combines interactive learning, night sky simulations, and direct observations, outdoors as weather permits. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge of astronomy!

To register, please purchase tickets here. Reservations include both evenings. In the event that a minimum of five total registrants has not been reached by May 31, the class will be canceled and your ticket refunded.

Feel free to email us with with questions at observatory@hawthornhollow.org

Astronomy Night

Astronomy Night

Saturday May 18, 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Join us at Heide Observatory for an unforgettable Astronomy Night celebration! Step into the fascinating world of astronomy as we gather under the night sky to marvel at the wonders of the universe.

Our event kicks off with an engaging introduction to astronomy, led by passionate experts who will share their knowledge and insights. Learn about the stars, planets, and galaxies that fill our night sky, and discover the secrets of the cosmos.

After the introductory session, it’s time to turn our gaze upward. Enjoy different views from multiple telescopes. Under knowledgeable guidance, peer through these impressive instruments to observe celestial objects up close. From the craters of the Moon to the wisps of the Ring Nebula, each view is a breathtaking reminder of the vastness and beauty of space.

Throughout the evening, our astronomers will be on hand to answer questions, share stories, and offer tips for stargazing at home. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a curious beginner, there’s something for everyone at Heide Observatory’s Astronomy Night celebration. Don’t miss this chance to connect with the cosmos and experience the magic of the night sky!

Reserve your tickets here.

This is a donation based event to sustain the operational needs of the observatory. Make your donation by purchasing one ticket at a price you determine. Kindly reach out to us Observatory@hawthornhollow.org to confirm the number of reservations you would like to make with your donation. We look forward to sharing this experience with you!

In case of cloudy skies or inclement weather, cancellation notification will be sent out by email 24 hours before the start of event.

Perseids Meteor Shower II 2024

Perseids Meteor Shower II 2024

Sunday (August 11) 12:15 am – 2:15 am

The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most dramatic things to see in the night sky between July and August.

In 2024 the Perseid meteor shower is active between 17 July and 24 August. The shower will peak 11-13 August.

The Perseid (Per-see-id) meteor shower is one of the highlights of many meteor hunters’ calendars due to its high hourly rate and bright meteors, caused by the Earth slamming into the debris left behind by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle in July and August every year.

It is called the Perseids because the meteors seem to originate from the constellation of Perseus. Astronomers call this point the meteor shower’s radiant.

Reserve your tickets for The Heide Observatory Perseids Meteor shower event and enjoy a relaxing display of the meteors as you lay back in our zero gravity chairs. Tickets for this event go fast so reserve yours today.

Watch for an email confirmation with the address used for purchase tickets a few days prior to the event and a updated weather confirmation at least 24 hours prior to the reservation time. In the event of poor weather conditions the back-up night will be Monday August 12, times yet to be determined. Please feel free to email us at Observatory@hawthornhollow.org.

Purchase Tickets Here.

Perseids Meteor Shower II 2024

Perseids Meteor Shower II (Bring your own chair or blanket) 2024

Sunday (August 11) 12:15 am – 2:00 am

The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most dramatic things to see in the night sky between July and August.

In 2024 the Perseid meteor shower is active between 17 July and 24 August. The shower will peak 11-13 August.

The Perseid (Per-see-id) meteor shower is one of the highlights of many meteor hunters’ calendars due to its high hourly rate and bright meteors, caused by the Earth slamming into the debris left behind by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle in July and August every year.

It is called the Perseids because the meteors seem to originate from the constellation of Perseus. Astronomers call this point the meteor shower’s radiant.

Reserve your tickets for The Heide Observatory Perseids Meteor shower event and enjoy a relaxing display of the meteors. Tickets for this event go fast so reserve yours today.

Watch for an email confirmation with the address used for purchase tickets a few days prior to the event and a updated weather confirmation at least 24 hours prior to the reservation time. In the event of poor weather conditions the back-up night will be Monday August 12, times yet to be determined. Please feel free to email us at Observatory@hawthornhollow.org.

Purchase Tickets Here.

Perseids Meteor Shower II 2024

Perseids Meteor Shower I (Bring your own chair or blanket) 2024

Saturday (August 10) 10:00 pm – 12:00 am

The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most dramatic things to see in the night sky between July and August.

In 2024 the Perseid meteor shower is active between 17 July and 24 August. The shower will peak 11-13 August.

The Perseid (Per-see-id) meteor shower is one of the highlights of many meteor hunters’ calendars due to its high hourly rate and bright meteors, caused by the Earth slamming into the debris left behind by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle in July and August every year.

It is called the Perseids because the meteors seem to originate from the constellation of Perseus. Astronomers call this point the meteor shower’s radiant.

Reserve your tickets for The Heide Observatory Perseids Meteor shower event and enjoy a relaxing display of the meteors. Tickets for this event go fast so reserve yours today.

Watch for an email confirmation with the address used for purchase tickets a few days prior to the event and a updated weather confirmation at least 24 hours prior to the reservation time. In the event of poor weather conditions the back-up night will be Monday August 12, times yet to be determined. Please feel free to email us at Observatory@hawthornhollow.org.

Purchase Tickets Here.

Dark Skies on Earth

Dark Skies on Earth

Monday, April 22, 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Join us at the Heide Observatory for an immersive program kicking off our Earth Week events at Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary and arboretum. Discover the significance of dark skies through engaging activities, including stargazing, telescope observations, and hands-on demonstrations. Explore the impact of light pollution on humans and wildlife, and learn simple solutions to preserve our natural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a curious novice, join us as we celebrate Earth Day and nurture our connection to the cosmos and our planet.

This is an open house event so no tickets are required. Activities include :

Telescope viewing
Stargazing – apparent magnitudes
Human eye response to light color and brightness
Isopod light response

If you have any additional questions, please email observatory@hawthornhollow.org. These events are weather-dependent and will be rescheduled if the cloud cover forecast is greater than 40%.
Dress appropriately for nighttime outdoor weather.
Purchase tickets here or email observatory@hawthornhollow.org.