Sept 2025 Public Observatory Night - Explore the Universe

This special evening will highlight the wonders of the universe through five engaging 7-minute talks delivered by early-career scientists—discussing topics from the birth of planets to the extraordinary achievement of imaging elusive black holes. Then, step onto the observatory roof for telescope observations, where we’ll observe the cosmos—weather permitting.

SPEAKERS:

Clara Ross, “The Birth of Planetary Systems”

Theo O’Neill, “Blowing Bubbles in the Milky Way”

Abby White, “Seeing the Unseen with Via”

Erandi Chavez, “Black Holes and the People Who Photograph Them”

William Gottemoller, “Unveiling the Life and Death of the Universe with Gravitational Lensing”

This event is organized and sponsored by the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA). The CfA sponsors a variety of free programs for the public. Among these events are Public Observatory Nights. These nights feature engaging non-technical lectures, and telescopic observing from the observatory roof if weather permits. The lectures are intended for high-school age and older audiences, but all are welcome. Admission is FREE, however, tickets are limited due to limited guest capacity. Max 4 tickets per email address.

These events are held in Phillips Auditorium (at the rear of the CfA complex near Madison Street and the large parking lot), 60 Garden Street, Cambridge. Parking lots marked for Observatory Staff are open to the public on event nights. Parking is FREE.

A few important points to keep in mind:

- This is a ticketed event, and all attendees must have a ticket for admission. Cancelled tickets will be readministered to individuals on the waitlist.

- Observations on the roof are weather-dependent. In case of unfavorable weather conditions, the talks will proceed as scheduled, but outdoor observations will be canceled. A tour of our historic 1847 Great Refractor Telescope will be offered if telescope observations are cancelled.

- Access to the roof is via stairs only. If you or a member of your party have any mobility limitations, please get in touch.

- Ensure you dress warmly for the occasion.

- High heels are not permitted on the roof.

- Some photography will take place. We avoid photographing faces, and focus on the guest speakers and nighttime telescope activities. If you have any issues with photography, please reach out and let us know.

We look forward to your presence at the event! Please check the HCO outreach website for more details on our public engagement programs: https://hco.cfa.harvard.edu/ou...