Two telescopes in a field.

Universe in the Park

 

Logo for Universe in the Park

Universe in the Park is a summer outreach program hosted by the Minnesota Institute for Astrophysics and area state and local parks. This annual program was founded by Evan Skillman and is currently headed by faculty member Ben Margalit and graduate student Ally Keen.

At our events, representatives of the Institute will present a short (~20 min) outdoor public talk and slide show. Presentations cover a variety of astronomical topics such as: the history of matter, how astronomers "see," and a journey through our solar system. For our 2024 season, we will be giving these talks outdoors to ensure they are as safe as possible.

Afterwards, if weather allows, attendees have the opportunity to view the sky through multiple 8-inch reflecting telescopes, operated by the staff and provided by the Minnesota Institute for Astrophysics. Throughout the evening, we encourage questions from the audience and enjoy discussing topics ranging from backyard astronomy to the latest scientific discoveries.

Through these events, we hope to convey the excitement of modern astronomical research while simultaneously providing an enjoyable introduction to amateur astronomy. Although a vehicle permit is usually required to enter the parks, the events are free to the public. Please join us!

2026 Schedule  

DateDayVenue
July 10FridayGooseberry Falls
July 11SaturdayTettegouche State Park
July 17FridayLake Maria State Park
July 18SaturdayEastman Nature Center
July 24FridayAfton State Park
July 25SaturdayLake Maria State Park
July 31FridayDodge Nature Center (Cottage Grove)
August 1SaturdayNerstrand Big Woods State Park
August 7FridayDodge Nature Center (West St. Paul)
August 8SaturdayWild River State Park 
August 14FridayEastman Nature Center
August 15SaturdayWild River State Park 
August 21FridayLake Louise State Park
August 22SaturdayForestville/Mystery Cave
August 28FridayCamp Wenonah
August 29SaturdayCamp Wenonah

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What time?
    Events are scheduled Fridays and Saturdays (rain or shine), usually beginning in June and ending mid-August. Presentations typically run from 8:45 to 10:00 or 11:00 PM, including telescope observing.
  • How much does it cost?
    The events are free, although usually a vehicle permit is required to enter the parks. So bring your family and friends!
  • What should I bring/wear?
    You don’t need to bring anything besides yourself, friends, and an interest in astronomy: we’ll provide all the equipment. However, we do have some recommendations:
    • Wear long pants/sleeves. It may be summer, but the temperature can still dip down in the evenings, and you're also not moving around very much during observing.
    • Bugspray. Nothing makes observing (or any other activity) more annoying than having to swat off mosquitos constantly! Please do not spray it near the telescopes. Apply it beforehand or briefly walk away from the telescopes to spray.

For more information, contact Ally Keen at [email protected]