Universe in the Park 2017
Looking for an astronomy fix? During the summer months, we don’t have the Friday night Public Viewings at the UofM’s Institute for Astrophysics, instead there is the Universe in the Park program on Friday and Saturday nights throughout the summer. These events are held in various parks — some close, some not so close. The program starts with a 20-30 minute presentation at 8:30 p.m. and then, weather permitting, an opportunity to view the sky through telescopes until 10 or 11 p.m. Participants can learn how to use a star map and go home with a free one. This program is free, but a vehicle permit may be required ($25 annual/$5 daily). 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 are paying for a days worth of parking, you might as well arrive early with a picnic and have some playtime.
Participating parks are listed below:
| Date | Park | Approx. Distance from Twin Cities |
| June 24, Saturday | Nerstrand Big Woods State Park | 1 hour |
| July 1, Saturday | William O’Brien State Park | 45 minutes |
| July 8, Saturday | Afton State Park | 30 minutes |
| July 14, Friday | Dodge Nature Center | 15 minutes |
| July 15, Saturday | Lowry Nature Center | 45 minutes |
| July 21, Friday | Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve | 45 minutes |
| July 29, Saturday | Afton State Park | 30 minutes |
| August 4, Friday | Mille Lacs Kathio State Park | 1 hour 45 mins |
| August 5, Saturday | Father Hennepin State Park | 2 hours |
| August 11, Friday | William O’Brien State Park | 45 minutes |
| August 12, Saturday | Lake Maria State Park | 1 hour |
For more information, contact Chris Nolting at nolting@astro.umn.edu.
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