by Chad Jocius | Sep 1, 2026 | Observatory, Observatory Events, Repeating
Thursdays: 8:30 pm – 10:30 pm (September 3, 10), 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm (September 17, 24)
An Evening of Deep Sky Discovery at The Heide Observatory
Experience the awe and wonder of the cosmos at “Through the Lens,” an immersive night of stargazing at The Heide Observatory.
Step inside the observatory dome to peer through our powerful 17-inch telescope, where you’ll take turns exploring binary stars, distant planets, shimmering galaxies, and other celestial marvels.
While you await your turn inside, enjoy an outdoor guided sky tour led by our knowledgeable astronomy staff. Beneath the open sky, you’ll learn to recognize constellations, trace the paths of planets, and connect your observations through the telescope to the grand panorama of the night sky above.
🌟 Tickets are limited, so reserve early for this unforgettable journey through the universe.
Weather and Attendance Information
This program is weather-dependent. In the event of cloud cover greater than 40% or if ticket sales are too low to fund event staffing, the session will be rescheduled.
Participants will receive a confirmation or reschedule email at least 24 hours before the event.
If you have not heard from us prior to the event, please check your spam or promotions folder for messages from the observatory.
What to Bring
Please dress for evening outdoor weather, as part of the program takes place outside under the stars. Warm layers and comfortable footwear are recommended.
Purchase tickets here or email observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
by Chad Jocius | Sep 1, 2026 | Observatory, Observatory Events, Repeating
Fridays: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm (September 4, 11), 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm (September 18, 25)
Join us for a captivating evening of exploration at The Heide Observatory with our family-friendly event, “Small Eyes Under the Skies.”
Together, we’ll journey through a scaled model of our solar system across the meadow—an interactive outdoor adventure that reveals the incredible sizes and distances of our celestial neighbors. After our trek, enjoy a breathtaking telescope viewing session, where you’ll witness planets, star clusters, and other cosmic wonders up close.
🌟 Space is limited, so reserve your tickets early for this stellar experience!
Weather and Attendance Information
In the event of cloud cover greater than 40% or if fewer tickets are sold than needed to support staffing, the event may be rescheduled.
You’ll receive a confirmation or reschedule notice by email at least 24 hours before the event.
If you haven’t heard from us by then—or would like faster weather updates—please email your number to the observatory team for personal text notifications about your event, and remember to check your spam folder if you have not received a confirmation for emails.
What to Bring
Please dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear for our outdoor “walk through the solar system.” The activity takes place in the open field, so layers and sturdy shoes are recommended.
Purchase tickets here or email observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
by Chad Jocius | Sep 1, 2026 | Education, Observatory, Observatory Events, Repeating
Wednesdays 8:30 pm – 10:30 pm (September 2, 9), 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm (September 16 – 30)
A Relaxing Evening of Stargazing at The Heide Observatory
Unwind beneath the night sky at “Wednesday Under the Stars,” a tranquil and inspiring experience hosted at The Heide Observatory.
Recline in one of our zero-gravity chairs with your favorite beverage in hand and prepare for an unforgettable journey across the cosmos. Our astronomy guides will lead you on a laser-assisted tour of the heavens—revealing brilliant stars, planets, constellations, galaxies, and other celestial wonders.
As you gaze upward, discover the stories, science, and hidden connections that bring these cosmic objects to life. Sit back, relax, and savor the magic of the universe in this one-of-a-kind evening under the stars.
🌟 Space is limited, so reserve your tickets early for this peaceful night of discovery and wonder.
Confirmation and Communication
Within 24 hours of purchase, you’ll receive a confirmation email verifying your reservation.
If your confirmation has not arrived or if your contact email differs from the one used at checkout, please reach out to observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
Weather and Attendance Information
This program is weather-dependent. In the event of cloud cover greater than 40% or if ticket sales are too low to fund event staffing, the program will be rescheduled.
Participants will receive an email notification at least 24 hours before the event regarding any schedule changes.
What to Bring
Please dress appropriately for nighttime outdoor weather. We recommend layers and comfortable clothing for an evening of relaxed stargazing.
Purchase tickets here or email observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
by Chad Jocius | Aug 30, 2026 | Observatory, Observatory Events, One-Time
November 6, 2026 (9:00 pm – 11:00 pm)
Join us at the Heide Observatory for Fireball Frenzy: Taurids, an evening meteor event focused on one of the most unusual and visually striking meteor showers of the year.
The Taurid meteor shower originates from debris left behind by Comet 2P/Encke, producing fewer meteors overall but a higher chance of slow-moving, exceptionally bright fireballs that can linger in the sky. Taurid meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Taurus, though their long paths allow them to be seen across much of the sky. Tickets include the use of our anti-gravity chairs, allowing guests to relax comfortably while observing.
For best viewing, guests are encouraged to face away from artificial lights, allow their eyes time to adjust to the darkness, and scan wide areas of the sky rather than focusing on a single point. Observatory staff will explain why the Taurids are associated with larger debris fragments, how fireballs form, and what makes this shower different from higher-rate meteor events. While activity can be sporadic and unpredictable, the Taurids offer the potential for some of the most dramatic individual meteors of the year under clear skies.
🔔 Important Event Information — Evening Event (Winter)
Weather-Dependent Event:
This program requires clear skies. If cloud cover greater than 40% is forecast, the event will be canceled or rescheduled. Notification will be sent by email no later than 24 hours before the event.
Email Communication Is Critical:
All weather updates, cancellations, or rescheduling notices are sent to the email address used at ticket checkout. Please ensure your email is correct and check spam or promotions folders. If you purchased tickets using a different email than you regularly monitor, you may miss important updates.
Dress for Cold, Stationary Observing:
This is an outdoor, late evening or early-morning event. Dress warmer than you think necessary. Multiple layers, insulated boots, hats, gloves, blankets, or sleeping bags are strongly recommended. Warm beverages are encouraged.
Get your tickets here!
Questions?
Please contact us at observatory@hawthornhollow.org
by Chad Jocius | Aug 4, 2026 | Education, Observatory, Observatory Events, Repeating
Wednesdays 8:30 – 10:30 pm
A Relaxing Evening of Stargazing at The Heide Observatory
Unwind beneath the night sky at “Wednesday Under the Stars,” a tranquil and inspiring experience hosted at The Heide Observatory.
Recline in one of our zero-gravity chairs with your favorite beverage in hand and prepare for an unforgettable journey across the cosmos. Our astronomy guides will lead you on a laser-assisted tour of the heavens—revealing brilliant stars, planets, constellations, galaxies, and other celestial wonders.
As you gaze upward, discover the stories, science, and hidden connections that bring these cosmic objects to life. Sit back, relax, and savor the magic of the universe in this one-of-a-kind evening under the stars.
🌟 Space is limited, so reserve your tickets early for this peaceful night of discovery and wonder.
Confirmation and Communication
Within 24 hours of purchase, you’ll receive a confirmation email verifying your reservation.
If your confirmation has not arrived or if your contact email differs from the one used at checkout, please reach out to observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
Weather and Attendance Information
This program is weather-dependent. In the event of cloud cover greater than 40% or if ticket sales are too low to fund event staffing, the program will be rescheduled.
Participants will receive an email notification at least 24 hours before the event regarding any schedule changes.
What to Bring
Please dress appropriately for nighttime outdoor weather. We recommend layers and comfortable clothing for an evening of relaxed stargazing.
Purchase tickets here or email observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
by Chad Jocius | Aug 4, 2026 | Observatory, Observatory Events, Repeating
Fridays: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Join us for a captivating evening of exploration at The Heide Observatory with our family-friendly event, “Small Eyes Under the Skies.”
Together, we’ll journey through a scaled model of our solar system across the meadow—an interactive outdoor adventure that reveals the incredible sizes and distances of our celestial neighbors. After our trek, enjoy a breathtaking telescope viewing session, where you’ll witness planets, star clusters, and other cosmic wonders up close.
🌟 Space is limited, so reserve your tickets early for this stellar experience!
Weather and Attendance Information
In the event of cloud cover greater than 40% or if fewer tickets are sold than needed to support staffing, the event may be rescheduled.
You’ll receive a confirmation or reschedule notice by email at least 24 hours before the event.
If you haven’t heard from us by then—or would like faster weather updates—please email your number to the observatory team for personal text notifications about your event, and remember to check your spam folder if you have not received a confirmation for emails.
What to Bring
Please dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear for our outdoor “walk through the solar system.” The activity takes place in the open field, so layers and sturdy shoes are recommended.
Purchase tickets here or email observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
by Chad Jocius | Jul 21, 2026 | Observatory, Observatory Events, One-Time
October 9, 2026 (7:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Join us at the Heide Observatory for Dragonfire Skies: Draconids, an early-evening meteor observing event featuring one of the most unpredictable meteor showers of the year.
The Draconid meteor shower is produced by debris from Comet 21P/Giacobini–Zinner and is known for occasional outbursts rather than steady activity, with meteor rates that can vary significantly from year to year. Draconid meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Draco, and unlike many meteor showers, they are best observed early in the evening, shortly after sunset.
Tickets include access to our anti-gravity chairs, providing a relaxed and comfortable way to watch the sky. For best viewing, guests are encouraged to face away from bright lights and scan large sections of the sky, as Draconids often appear suddenly and briefly. Observatory staff will discuss why this shower behaves differently from others, how comet dust trails create sudden meteor bursts, and what makes the Draconids a unique and occasionally surprising skywatching experience. While this is typically a lower-rate shower, even a small number of meteors can make for a memorable early-night observing session when conditions are favorable.
🔔 Important Event Information — Evening Event (Winter)
Weather-Dependent Event:
This program requires clear skies. If cloud cover greater than 40% is forecast, the event will be canceled or rescheduled. Notification will be sent by email no later than 24 hours before the event.
Email Communication Is Critical:
All weather updates, cancellations, or rescheduling notices are sent to the email address used at ticket checkout. Please ensure your email is correct and check spam or promotions folders. If you purchased tickets using a different email than you regularly monitor, you may miss important updates.
Dress for Cold, Stationary Observing:
This is an outdoor, late evening or early-morning event. Dress warmer than you think necessary. Multiple layers, insulated boots, hats, gloves, blankets, or sleeping bags are strongly recommended. Warm beverages are encouraged.
Get your tickets here!
Questions?
Please contact us at observatory@hawthornhollow.org
by Chad Jocius | Jul 20, 2026 | Observatory, Observatory Events, Repeating
Thursdays: (9:00 pm – 11:00 pm) August 6, 13 (8:30 pm – 10:30 pm) August 20, 27
An Evening of Deep Sky Discovery at The Heide Observatory
Experience the awe and wonder of the cosmos at “Through the Lens,” an immersive night of stargazing at The Heide Observatory.
Step inside the observatory dome to peer through our powerful 17-inch telescope, where you’ll take turns exploring binary stars, distant planets, shimmering galaxies, and other celestial marvels.
While you await your turn inside, enjoy an outdoor guided sky tour led by our knowledgeable astronomy staff. Beneath the open sky, you’ll learn to recognize constellations, trace the paths of planets, and connect your observations through the telescope to the grand panorama of the night sky above.
🌟 Tickets are limited, so reserve early for this unforgettable journey through the universe.
Weather and Attendance Information
This program is weather-dependent. In the event of cloud cover greater than 40% or if ticket sales are too low to fund event staffing, the session will be rescheduled.
Participants will receive a confirmation or reschedule email at least 24 hours before the event.
If you have not heard from us prior to the event, please check your spam or promotions folder for messages from the observatory.
What to Bring
Please dress for evening outdoor weather, as part of the program takes place outside under the stars. Warm layers and comfortable footwear are recommended.
Purchase tickets here or email observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
by Chad Jocius | Jul 20, 2026 | Education, Observatory, Observatory Events, Repeating
Wednesdays 9:00 pm – 11:00 pm
A Relaxing Evening of Stargazing at The Heide Observatory
Unwind beneath the night sky at “Wednesday Under the Stars,” a tranquil and inspiring experience hosted at The Heide Observatory.
Recline in one of our zero-gravity chairs with your favorite beverage in hand and prepare for an unforgettable journey across the cosmos. Our astronomy guides will lead you on a laser-assisted tour of the heavens—revealing brilliant stars, planets, constellations, galaxies, and other celestial wonders.
As you gaze upward, discover the stories, science, and hidden connections that bring these cosmic objects to life. Sit back, relax, and savor the magic of the universe in this one-of-a-kind evening under the stars.
🌟 Space is limited, so reserve your tickets early for this peaceful night of discovery and wonder.
Confirmation and Communication
Within 24 hours of purchase, you’ll receive a confirmation email verifying your reservation.
If your confirmation has not arrived or if your contact email differs from the one used at checkout, please reach out to observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
Weather and Attendance Information
This program is weather-dependent. In the event of cloud cover greater than 40% or if ticket sales are too low to fund event staffing, the program will be rescheduled.
Participants will receive an email notification at least 24 hours before the event regarding any schedule changes.
What to Bring
Please dress appropriately for nighttime outdoor weather. We recommend layers and comfortable clothing for an evening of relaxed stargazing.
Purchase tickets here or email observatory@hawthornhollow.org.
by Chad Jocius | Jul 20, 2026 | Education, Observatory, Observatory Events, One-Time
October 6, (3:00 am – 5:00 am)
Join us at the Heide Observatory for a rare Lunar Occultation of Jupiter, an early-morning observing event on October 6 from 3:00 AM – 5:00 AM, when the Moon will move across the sky and temporarily block Jupiter from view.
During this event, guests will observe Jupiter approach the Moon, disappear behind its edge, and later reappear as the Moon continues its orbit, offering a dramatic demonstration of celestial motion in real time. Observatory staff will guide guests through telescope viewing and explain why occultations occur, how the Moon’s motion reveals the dynamics of our solar system, and why events like this are visible only from certain locations on Earth.
This is an early-morning (AM) event, and viewing success depends on timing and clear skies, but when conditions cooperate, lunar occultations provide some of the most striking and memorable planetary observations available.
🔔 Important Event Information — Evening Event (Fall)
Weather-Dependent Event:
This program requires clear skies. If cloud cover greater than 40% is forecast, the event will be canceled or rescheduled. Notification will be sent by email no later than 24 hours before the event.
Email Communication Is Critical:
All weather updates, cancellations, or rescheduling notices are sent to the email address used at ticket checkout. Please ensure your email is correct and check spam or promotions folders. If you purchased tickets using a different email than you regularly monitor, you may miss important updates.
Dress for Cold, Stationary Observing:
This is an outdoor, late evening or early-morning event. Dress warmer than you think necessary. Multiple layers, insulated boots, hats, gloves, blankets, or sleeping bags are strongly recommended. Warm beverages are encouraged.
Questions?
Please contact us at observatory@hawthornhollow.org
