Fox Park Observatory-Public Viewing Dates

If the sky is sufficiently clear, the Fox Park Observatory will open its doors for public observing on selected astronomical objects on the dates listed at the right.

The Observatory is located inside Fox Park in the far northwest corner of the park past the beach area and new restroom facility.  This is an open air observatory so please dress appropriately for the weather and wear sensible shoes or boots for the 200 yard walk to the observatory.

Local area astronomer Jason Blaschka will be on hand to answer questions about the night sky.  Observation nights will not be held on nights with more than 30% cloud cover.  You may call the Observatory at 517-645-MOON during public viewing hours to check on sky conditions.

Parks Naturalist Jackie Blanc will be providing a series of Nature at Night night hikes at Fox Park prior to the public observing nights on the following dates:  January 22 and 23 and February 19 and 20.  All night hikes begin at 6:00 p.m.

For more information, please call the park office at 517-627-7351.

Fox Observatory-Public Viewing Dates (printable PDF format)

PUBLIC VIEWING DATES

January 8—9
7:00 p.m.—12:00 midnight
Astrophotography
$5/person

January 22—23
7:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m.
View Moon and Jupiter
Mars is getting closer!
$1/person or $5/family

January 29
7:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m.
Mars is at closest approach!
$1/person or $5/family

February 5—6
7:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m.
Orion and his entourage
$1/person or $5/family

February 19—20
7:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m.
View the Moon, Mars, Venus,
and Saturn
$1/person or $5/family

March 5—6
7:30 p.m.—9:30 p.m.
Exploring the Galaxy
$1/person or $5/family

March 12—13
Starts at 7:30 p.m.
Messier All Night Marathon
$5/person