Events
Intro to Astrophotography
Tickets: $20/person
Sights Before Sunrise
Join us for our new early-morning event in 2024, Sights Before Sunrise. These are clear-only events so we will let you know the day before if the event is a go. We will only use your email for the purposes of communication about the Sights Before Sunrise event. See more details below:
We are turning the tables and offering some early morning stargazing this year. This program is for those who want to be the first to see objects that will be up later in the year at our typical viewing times. This event will include viewing through our historic Mitchel telescope at Venus and the Moon. Coffee and donuts will be available.
Please register for the email list here so that we can notify you if the event is go/no go.
Sunday History Tours
Stories From Our History
This special program offers those seeking to learn more about the Observatory’s history a more detailed, in-depth guided tour at Noon or 1:30pm. All the wonderful details covered in a Daytime Tour are included - as well as more stories of how the Observatory came to be (and almost didn’t!). You'll also discover the Observatory’s role in weather forecasting and timekeeping as well as visit our interactive Sundial, original 1843 cornerstone, and more! Tours last approximately one hour with plenty of time for questions and some behind-the-scenes fun! Perfect for local history, astronomy and science buffs ages 12 and up.
Tickets are $10/adult, $5/kids (recommended for kids 12+), $5/senior, $5/veteran and free for Observatory members
Space is limited. Advanced reservations are recommended.
History Bites - Lunchtime Program
For those who want to network and have a little fun at lunch, join us for
If We Weren't Here, Where Would We Be?
Cincinnati is a city of seven hills, so just where do you put an Observatory? Obviously on top of one of the hills and away from pollution but what other factors influenced the decision of the original location and its move? Join us as Board Member and Volunteer, Al Sheide presents, If We Weren't Here, Where Would We Be? A discussion of a possible different locations for the Cincinnati Observatory, how the current location was picked, and Mitchel’s desire to collaborate with the Dudley Observatory in New York.
$10 for non-members, Free for Members
Walk-ins welcome!
Beyond Safe Solar Viewing
Coming off the recent total solar eclipse, many amateur astronomers have become well-versed in the art of safe solar viewing. But what else can you do if solar filters and eclipse glasses just don’t cut it anymore? Join this class given by Program Educator Eric Harris and discover the myriad ways amateurs can study the closest star to Earth. Great for beginners, we will demonstrate methods both with and without a telescope!
Tickets $20/person
Sunday SUN-day Sundae
Join us as we continue to celebrate the Sun at Sunday Sun-day Sundae - August 11 is the last one until next year! This event includes short talks about the Sun, tours of our historic buildings, kids activities, and safe viewing of sunspots and solar flares from our 1845 telescope (weather permitting). We will also be joined by Breakout Games with chances to win free game play at their local escape room!
As a special treat we will also have sundaes for those in attendance. The program runs rain or shine.
All proceeds benefit the Cincinnati Observatory education programming.
Tickets: $10/adult, $5/child
Walk-ins welcome!
