Public Nights at the Georgia Tech Observatory

Public Nights are contingent on clear weather. Please also note individual time shifts, below. Find updated schedules, potential closures, driving and parking directions, and more info at: astronomy.gatech.edu

Stargazers are invited to the Georgia Tech Observatory for public nights throughout fall and spring semesters.

On the grounds between the Howey and Mason Buildings, several telescopes are typically set up for viewing, and visitors are invited to bring their own telescope, as well.

Jim Sowell, principal academic professional and director of the Georgia Tech Observatory, is excited that public nights have returned after a break during the pandemic. “A clear evening with some celestial objects visible is as much a delight for me as it is for the visitors.”

The viewing targets for this fall include the Moon, Jupiter, and Saturn. Sowell, along with members of the Georgia Tech Astronomy Club, will help answer questions and showcase various celestial objects. “I describe my role these days as a tour guide,” said Sowell, “and I greatly enjoy hearing the squeals and gasps as people see craters on the moon, or the rings of Saturn, or moons orbiting Jupiter.”

Tentative Schedule, Fall and Spring 2022-23:

• November 3 — 7 to 9 p.m. — Moon, Jupiter, Saturn
• December 1 — 6 to 8 p.m. — Moon, Jupiter, Saturn
• February 2 — 7 to 9 p.m. — Moon, Jupiter, Mars
• March 2 — 7 to 9 p.m. — Moon, Mars, Orion Nebula
• March 30 — 8 to 10 p.m. — Moon, Mars, Orion Nebula
• April 27 — 9 to 11 p.m. — Moon, Mars, Double Star