Witte Observatory Reservations

The Southeastern Iowa Astronomy Club will open the Witte Observatory Complex BY RESERVATION only to the public.

https://calendly.com/seiac

Note that there IS a BACK-UP date for this Event. IF the skies are not clear, our BACK-UP date is September 25. You will be notified via e-mail if we’re going with the back-up date and also if the event is cancelled all together.

The Moon will be last quarter so it will not visible this viewing session. This should make for relatively dark skies which lend themselves for viewing faint objects, such as nebula, in addition to brighter objects such as double stars and star clusters.

Saturn will be visible at sunset. Be aware that Saturn’s rings are nearly “edge-on” versus tilted so they are not nearly as dazzling. Jupiter does not rise soon enough to be seen this viewing session.

Click here for more information including a map:
https://desmoinescounty.iowa.gov/conservation/parks/big_hollow_recreation_area/

Here is a link to a set of documents you might be interested in before / during / after your visit: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1MQqtp5pxNYtt9_kFgGjc3kjzW__Q3UJt?usp=drive_link
 
One 90 minute session includes: Tour facilities View through one of the three telescopes operated by trained operators Constellations / Night Sky Education materials in the classroom

As you make your reservation, please provide the following:
1) Name
2) Email address
3) Is this a group, if so, how many in your group including yourself.
4) What do you hope to learn?

What to Expect :
90% of the activities will be held outside – Dress Accordingly

Upon arrival
*Tour of Buildings and Telescopes: Telescopes are operated by a trained person.  Most telescopes require a ladder to view. Parent/Adult to go with young children to view. Do not touch telescopes or eyepieces as the telescopes move easily. *Tour Classroom – educational materials
*Area for Constellation/Night Sky Viewing lead by astronomy club member.

Night Fall Guidelines Use Only Red Lights for better night vision. No flashlights, bright cells phones nor red flashing shoes. NO RUNNING for the safety of yourself, others and equipment.

After touring the buildings/telescopes, visitors are welcome to move from one area to another.

The Southeastern Iowa Astronomy Club for local educational opportunities voluntarily operate and financially maintains the Witte Observatory Complex through Personal Donations and Grants.
DONATIONS are Greatly Appreciated and can either be received at the Observatory or mailed to:

Southeastern Iowa Astronomy Club
P.O. Box 14
West Burlington, Iowa 52655