Jason Pinkney, Ph.D.,ONU professor of Physics and Astronomy, has announced four free public events at the ONU Observatory during Fall 2026.

• Friday, Sept 25, 8:30-10:30 p.m. "Autumnal Equinox Star Party"
• Monday, Oct 9, 8:00-10:00 p.m. "Saturn in the Whale"
• Friday, Nov 6, 8:00-10:00 p.m. "Taurid Meteor Shower"
• Friday, Dec 11, 8:00-10:00 pm. "Geminid Meteor Shower"

The first event is coming up on Friday, Sept. 25. Saturn and the Moon will be the main targets of the Observatory telescopes. The Moon will be nearly full, which
interferes with seeing faint "deep-sky" objects, but visitors can look at double stars and bright planets.

Visitors are welcome to drop by anytime during the allotted 2 hours and don't need to stay the whole time.

Pinkney will add a "CANCELLED" note by 2 p.m. on the day of the event if it looks like the sky will be too cloudy that night. Maps to the Observatory are here.

PARKING
Until November 1, the closest parking lot to the Observatory (at Wander field) will be closed for construction. Please use the lots near the football and soccer stadiums instead.

Event announcements will be posted online here.