6 Stargazing Events This Summer

Looking up to the stars has been a pastime for centuries. While there are many great spots for stargazing in Ohio, some of our local observatories are offering programs this season to guide your journey through the stars. From the bright light of the sun to the blanket of stars that stretch across our sky each clear evening, don’t miss these six astronomical happening events across Ohio this summer.

Nassau Astronomy Nights with CVAS | June 21 
Located at the Nassau Astronomical Station in Montville’s Observatory Park, the Chagrin Valley Astronomical Society is hosting a stargazing event from 9 to 11 p.m. Attendees can view the night sky through the park’s restored 36-inch telescope, which is only accessible via ladder. Since there are only a limited number of people permitted in the observatory at a time, those waiting outside at this free event can view the night sky through the portable telescopes.

Astronomy Evening | June 27
Starting at 9 p.m., Astronomy Evening provides the chance for Cincinnati Observatory visitors to experience a 90-minute presentation about various celestial phenomena, as well as an in-depth guide to all that the observatory has to offer. Weather permitting, attendees will also be able to view the night sky through the observatory’s telescope from 1845. Because there are limited spots, registration is required. 

Night Sky Viewing at Robert McCullough Science Center | June 27
Hosted at Observatory Park in the Robert McCullough Science Center, space lovers can explore the sky using many different telescopes, including the Oberle telescope. This event suits all ages and admission is free. If the night arrives and the skies are not clear, have no fear, as a planetarium presentation is lined up in case it’s cloudy.

Public Nights at Warren Rupp Observatory | July 5; Aug. 2 
Taking place on the first Saturday of each month through November, the Warren Rupp Observatory in Bellville provides a place for outer space enthusiasts to bring their own equipment or use the observatory’s many different telescopes to stargaze. From 10 to 11:30 p.m., the public can enjoy exploring the night sky outdoors. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, there will be tours of the observatory from knowledgeable volunteers.

Celebration of the Sun | July 19; July 26
There’s no need to wait for nightfall to stargaze, you just need a little help from the experts. On two Saturday afternoons in July, Perkins Observatory on the campus of Ohio Wesleyan University hosts an an event during which attendees can use solar telescopes and eclipse glasses to observe the sun. Starting at 2 p.m., the gathering also includes activities such as rocket launches and sundial demonstrations to shed light on our closest and star.

Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party | Aug. 9 
Lima Astronomical Society and Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District team up again to host their annual Perseid meteor shower stargazing event at Kendrick Woods. Beginning at 9 p.m., the event also offers shareable telescopes and education handouts. Attendees are allowed to bring their own equipment to observe and capture the full moon and shooting stars.

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