Universe in the Park
A summer telescope observing program at state parks and nature centers

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 is headed by faculty member Evan Skillman and graduate student Nico Adams.
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 2022 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!
2022 Schedule
Date | Day | Venue |
---|---|---|
July 1 | Friday | William O'Brien State Park |
July 8 | Friday | Dodge Nature Center (West St. Paul) |
July 9 | Saturday | Lowry Nature Center (Carver campground) |
July 16 | Saturday | Eastman Nature Center |
July 22 | Friday | Afton State Park |
July 23 | Saturday | Nerstrand Big Woods State Park |
July 29 | Friday | Dodge Nature Center (Cottage Grove) |
July 30 | Saturday | Eastman Nature Center |
August 5 | Friday | William O'Brien State Park |
August 6 | Saturday | Lowry Nature Center (At the nature center) |
August 12 | Friday | Gooseberry Falls State Park |
August 13 | Saturday | Tettegouche State Park |
August 19 | Friday | Father Hennepin |
August 20 | Saturday | Mille Lacs Kathio |
August 27 | Saturday | Afton State Park |
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 Nico Adams at adams900@umn.edu.