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Staring Lake Observatory, 13765 Staring Lake Parkway, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
Staring Lake Park, 14800 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
(952) 949-8300
Admission: $12.00
Most programs are $12/pp and are for ages 8+
Find programs in the City’s seasonal Activities Brochures
Please note: The Staring Lake Observatory is not open to the public except for scheduled programs and events.

Eden Prairie’s Staring Lake Observatory in Staring Lake Park was a gift from the Minnesota Astronomical Society. The 9-foot tall, 16-inch Cassegrain telescope is one of the largest telescopes in the state of Minnesota. The city hosts public astronomy programs throughout the year at the observatory. This can make a fun family outing when studying astronomy or with kids who are interested in space in general.

Note: The observatory and Staring Lake Outdoor Center are on the opposite side of Staring Lake as the park. Visitors will likely want to park on the lot on that end of the lake, rather than manage the 1.5-mile trails around the lake after dark. Instead, perhaps come early for programs, hike the trails in daylight, play on the playground equipment, have a picnic dinner, than get back to the observatory side of the lake before dusk.

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Star Watch Astronomy at Staring Lake Observatory

Exterior of Staring Lake Observatory on the shore of Staring Lake, Eden Prairie, MN
Staring Lake Observatory sits on the shore of Staring Lake

Star Watch Astronomy programs are pre-scheduled on select dates year round and go forward rain or shine. If the sky is clear, the observatory roof will be open for viewing. If the weather is cloudy, a large LCD screen in the Outdoor Center is used to simulate a night sky. An astronomer leads each event and is available to explain what you are seeing and answers questions. Past participants advise bringing your own binoculars to get an additional view of the evening sky.

Programs are usually $12.00 per person and are recommended for ages 8+ (with a registered adult). Visitors are encouraged to dress for the current weather and bring binoculars for additional viewing.


More Family Astronomy Fun:

Minnesota Night Sky Viewing: Twin Cities Observatories, Planetariums and Other Heavenly Opportunities

Full Moon in a Dark Sky
Staring Lake is one of the best places in the Twin Cities to view stars, planets, nebulas and, of course, the moon


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