Look up! Celebrate National Astronomy Day next weekend
Stargazers and curious minds of all ages are invited to look to the heavens next month as the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association hosts a celebration for National Astronomy Day on Saturday, Oct. 10.
WEST OLIVE — Stargazers and curious minds of all ages are invited to look to the heavens next month as the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association hosts a celebration for National Astronomy Day on Saturday, Oct. 10.
The free event takes place from noon to 5 p.m. at the Hemlock Crossing Public Observatory, 8115 West Olive Road.
Designed to bring the wonders of the night sky down to Earth, the event offers a full lineup of hands-on activities, lectures, and stargazing tailored for families and amateur astronomers alike.
“We’re excited to give people a chance to experience the wonders of the universe,” said Frank Roldan, SAAA Observatory director. “Fingers crossed for clear skies!”
Activities kick off at noon with daytime solar observing using specialized Coronado and Meade LX-600 telescopes, allowing safe views of the sun. Visitors can also take a self-guided Planet Walk, an interactive model that demonstrates the true scale of our solar system.
Following a brief dinner break, the evening programming resumes at 7 p.m. with an informational lecture, "Buying a Telescope," intended to guide beginner stargazers on choosing the right equipment.
From 8 p.m. until midnight, attendees can participate in nighttime sky observing through multiple high-powered telescopes, alongside guided constellation identification and traditional mythological storytelling. Visitors planning to attend the evening sessions should note that park entry gates close at 10:00 p.m.
Clear skies are required for live telescope viewings, but the exploration won't stop if clouds roll in. In the event of inclement weather, the afternoon activities will move inside the Nature Education Center, featuring a planet walk exhibit, telescope displays, and space-related video presentations alongside the scheduled 7 p.m. lecture.
Throughout the day, visitors can also tour a gallery of space photographs on display inside the Nature Education Center. Prints are available for purchase at $30 each via Venmo, with all proceeds directly benefiting Ottawa County Parks and the SAAA.
Children attending the event will receive a free raffle ticket for an opportunity to win their very own telescope. Raffle winners will be announced on the SAAA website following the event.
Please consider becoming a monthly donor!
If You Go
- Date: Saturday, Oct. 10
- Location: Hemlock Crossing Public Observatory, 8115 West Olive Road, West Olive
- Admission: Free (registration encouraged)
- Registration and info: tinyurl.com/2z9y42cc
- Raffle Announcements: holland-saaa.org
The Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering the appreciation and enjoyment of amateur astronomy.
Serving West Michigan, the SAAA partners with Ottawa County Parks, Holland State Park, Hope College, the Holland Museum, local libraries, and public schools to bring science education and community outreach to the region.
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