As Part of the Veen Observatory Public Observing Nights
Grand Rapids, MI -The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) and the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association (GRAAA) will present an overnight observing session for the public at the James C. Veen Observatory from 9:00 p.m. Saturday, August 12 through 4:30 a.m. on Sunday, August 13.
The event offers an ideal opportunity to witness the Perseid meteor shower at peak activity, presenting the most favorable viewing conditions in recent years. Participants are encouraged to bring blankets, sleeping bags, and light refreshments as they venture to the designated area on the observatory grounds, reserved exclusively for the meteor watch.
Telescopes will be directed to deep sky objects such as nebulae and clusters during evening hours, and the planets Jupiter and Saturn after midnight. Guidance will be readily available throughout the night, courtesy of specialists from the GRAAA and the Museum’s Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium. These knowledgeable resources will ensure attendees have a rewarding and memorable experience as they observe the celestial wonders above.
The GRPM and Veen Observatory’s partnership with GRAAA is made possible thanks in part to the ongoing support of Kent County voters, who generously contribute to the GRPM through a County millage.
The Veen Observatory is located at 3308 Kissing Rock Ave. in Lowell Township. Visit GRAAA.org for images and a map of the Observatory, along with information about reserving an appointment for a group visit to the facility.
Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for ages 18 and under. GRPM and GRAAA members are free. This event will take place only if the sky is clear enough to permit celestial observations. For sky status updates and further information please visit graaa.org, or call 616-897-7065. Cash is appreciated, though checks and some credit cards are also accepted. Those who would find the quarter-mile uphill walk from the parking area difficult may request a courtesy cart from a parking attendant or at the admissions desk.
Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical AssociationThe Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association is a non-profit educational and scientific organization dedicated to advancing the study of astronomy and promoting astronomy and science education to the community. Operating from the Veen Observatory in Lowell Twp, MI, the GRAAA is an organization that offers information, guidance, and memberships for anyone interested in astronomy. Visit graaa.org for more information.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum provides ongoing administrative and financial support to the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association in the operation of the James C. Veen Observatory.
Grand Rapids Public MuseumThe Grand Rapids Public Museum is an invaluable, publicly-owned institution that is home to more than 250,000 unique artifacts that tell the history of Kent County and beyond, houses the only planetarium in the region, and is responsible for protecting The Mounds, a national historic landmark. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, with its main location in downtown Grand Rapids, MI at 272 Pearl Street, NW. For additional information including hours of operation, admission fees, and exhibit/event listings, please visit www.grpm.org.
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