Statewide Astronomy Night

Appropriate for: Elementary school age, Middle school age, High school age, Over 21 years only

Join Shiras Planetarium for a night full of astronomy!

4:00 - Constellations for Kids - For ages 6-10

Learn about a few major constellations in the U.P. night sky in spring! In this session, participants will learn about visible constellations in April. Then, we will use our MS-8 star projector to explore the current night sky and learn how to find the constellations we learned about! Each child will leave with a gift bag, including constellation-themed activities and surprises!

This event is free, but seating is limited to 30 children(ages 6-10) and up to 25 adults.


6:30 - Astrophotography for Beginners

Have you ever wondered how photographers get those amazing photos of space? Join us for a presentation from Todd Stephens about astrophotography! You will hear information about how to take photos of objects in outer space and learn basic techniques. You will also see examples of astrophotography!

This presentation is free but is limited to 55 guests. Children are welcome but must be able to remain quiet and attentive for this lecture-style event. Thank you!

8:00 - Free Night Sky Tour

We are offering a free Night Sky Tour to celebrate Statewide Astronomy Night! We will use our MS-8 star projector to look at some planets and constellations visible in the April night sky!

This presentation is free but is limited to 55 guests. Children are welcome but must be able to remain quiet and attentive for this lecture-style event. Thank you!

Learn more about Statewide Astronomy Night Marquette

Appropriate for: Kindergarten and Pre-K, Middle school age, High school age, Over 21 years only

The Kalamazoo Valley Museum will present a number of astronomy-related events and activities on Saturday, April 29 from 5-8:30 p.m. for children and adults to learn more about what lies beyond the atmosphere of Earth.

Learn more about Statewide Astronomy Night: Kalamazoo

Appropriate for: Kindergarten and Pre-K, Middle school age, High school age, Over 21 years only

It takes many people with diverse backgrounds, talents, and skills to run a world-class observatory. Meet a few of these people as they share the wonder of the sky and the excitement of discovery. Explore the world-class observatories nestled in northern Chile’s mountains and learn why Chile is an ideal environment for studying the cosmos.

Learn more about Big Astronomy: People Places Discoveries

Appropriate for: Elementary school age, Middle school age, High school age, Over 21 years only

Belle Isle Nature Center is partnering with Wayne State University’s Planetarium and the Michigan Science Center to host a Statewide Astronomy Night. Nature Center staff will facilitate educational activities about nighttime animal adaptations and the Lights Out programs for safe passage for nocturnal wildlife. Wayne State University staff set up multiple telescopes on the nature trail and share night sky and animal-based constellation stories. Michigan Science Center staff will operate a portable planetarium as an immersive learning activity.

Learn more about Statewide Astronomy Night: Detroit

Appropriate for: Elementary school age, Middle school age, High school age, Over 21 years only

Come explore the universe through telescopes and activities. Activities will explore a variety of different astronomical concepts. Weather permitting we will set up telescopes to take a look at what's up in the night sky up close! Open rain or shine!

Learn more about Statewide Astronomy Night: MSU Observatory

Appropriate for: Elementary school age, Middle school age, High school age, Over 21 years only

The Detroit Observatory will be offering historic tours of the original, 19th century observatory, presentations on historic and modern astronomy, and telescope viewing through its large, Fitz refracting telescope. Telescope observing is weather dependant.

Learn more about Statewide Astronomy Night Ann Arbor

Appropriate for: Elementary school age, Middle school age, High school age, Over 21 years only

The Longway Planetarium and Genesee County Parks are partnering to host a star party for the Statewide Astronomy Night at Toboggan Hill. Guests will be able to view objects in the night sky using telescopes operated by the Longway Planetarium and are welcome to bring their personal telescopes to provide additional observing stations. Additional educational events will be available related both to space and life sciences. Toboggan Hill is a secluded park promising dark skies and good viewing conditions. Please note that there is no running water at the park. The event is hosted outside so please dress accordingly.

Learn more about Statewide Astronomy Night: Flint

Appropriate for: Kindergarten and Pre-K, Middle school age, High school age

Join the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium and the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association for a night of free stargazing at the James C. Veen Observatory. Along with the observatory telescopes, GRAAA members will set up their own telescopes so visitors can view the wonders of the night sky. Visitors can also tour the facility and enjoy a presentation about the history of the GRAAA and the Veen Observatory.

Space activities will be facilitated by educators from Grand Rapids Public Museum. The activities will be available rain or shine; telescope viewing will only be possible if skies are clear.

Learn more about Statewide Astronomy Night: Grand Rapids