Boston

Free Stargazing at the Boston University Observatory

Boston can be a beautiful city wherever you look, but a local university offers a way to see the amazing things that sit far, far above it.

Boston University’s Public Open Night at the Observatory is a weekly event that is a must-see for anyone looking for a free evening activity. The astronomy department lets visitors onto the roof of the Coit Observatory and use one of their high-power telescopes to look at the moon, Saturn and the millions of things in between.

“We explain what you are looking at and you can ask questions about what you are looking at,” said Observatory Manager Quinn Sykes. “Hopefully we instill a sense of wonder about astronomy.”

These celestial sightings are far more detailed through their telescopes that they have set up and positioned for visitors. They use Schmidt–Cassegrain telescopes, which are upper-level amateur grade and provide detailed views of the heavens.

“When they see the moon or Saturn for the first time through a telescope, you can definitely get a sense of amazement from them. They can be blown away by the beauty of it and the sense of scale of the universe.”

The event is held most Wednesday evenings throughout the year if the skies are clear enough for observing. It starts at 7:30 p.m. during the fall and winter months and 8:30 p.m. during the spring and summer months.

The night of stargazing is open to the public, but tickets can be reserved in advance due to limited space. You won’t want to miss the amazing view of the Boston skyline as the sun goes down.

For information, you can call 617-353-2630, or follow the Boston University Astronomy Department Twitter feed.

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