Universe In The Park: Go on a Family Space Odyssey in Minnesota

Looking for an astronomy fix during the summer months? When the U of M is out, we don’t have the Friday night Public Viewings at the Institute for Astrophysics; instead there is the Universe in the Park program. These events are held in various parks on Friday and Saturday nights throughout the summer — some close, some not so close. The program starts with a 20-30 minute slide show presentation at 8:45 p.m. and, weather permitting, an opportunity to to get a closer look the solar system through 8-inch reflecting telescopes until 10 or 11 p.m. Attendees can learn how to use a star map and go home with a free one.

Universe in the Park Details

Pre-registration is not required to attend these short outdoor presentations or the telescope viewing.

Cost to Participate

This program does not require a registration fee, but a vehicle permit are required at the State Parks ($35 annual/$7 daily). For a completely FREE night, look for events in Three Rivers Park District Parks. Three Rivers does not charge vehicle fees.

What to Pack & Wear

Don’t forget to dress appropriately for Minnesota summer evenings (You know the drill — layers and insect repellent.) Since it IS a park, and you may be paying for a day’s worth of parking, you might as well arrive early with a picnic and have some playtime.

Dress in comfortable clothing for a Minnesota summer evening. You may want to wear or bring long pants and sleeves in case it cools down after dark and bring the outdoor essentials, like bug spray for the mosquitos, good walking shoes and and a water bottle.