Public Open Night at the Observatory
The Public Open Night at the Observatory is a chance for people to come observe the night sky through telescopes and binoculars and see things they otherwise might not get to see, and learn some astronomy as well. The Open Nights are held most Wednesday evenings throughout the year, weather permitting.
It is open to everyone. Starting times are 7:30pm during the fall and winter, and 8:30pm during the spring and summer. The program lasts about an hour.
Weather
The weather is always a factor when observing. Unfortunately we can't control the weather and we can't observe when there are clouds, haze, or rain; so when the weather is bad, the Open Night will be canceled. Predicting the weather in New England isn't easy, so we won't know if the Open Night will be held or not until the day of the program. To find out if the Open Night will be held, call our information number at 617-353-2630, no earlier than two hours before the scheduled starting time. This lets us make the decision as late as possible while still giving those who live farther away time to get here.
Remember, it gets very cold in Boston in the winter and the telescopes are outside, so dress warmly.
Location
The Public Open Night is held at the Coit Observatory at Boston University. We are located at 725 Commonwealth Ave. in Boston, right above the Astronomy Department. The stairwell to the Observatory is on the fifth floor right next to room 520.
Unfortunately, there is no disabled access to the Observatory.
Information
For information, please call 617-353-2630.