Dark Skies & Deep Space: Galaxies of the Spring Sky
Listed by Public Events and Programs
About
Under the dark skies of May’s new moon, explore one of the best seasons for discovering distant galaxies. Spring nights point our view away from the dense center of the Milky Way and outward into deep space, revealing countless “island universes” scattered across the cosmos. With the Big Dipper high overhead and the bright star Arcturus rising in the east, this is the perfect time to peer millions of light-years into space and discover galaxies, star clusters, and other celestial treasures.
Join OSMP staff and partners from the Longmont Astronomical Society, DarkSky Colorado, and CU’s Fiske Planetarium for guided stargazing and telescope viewing beneath Boulder’s protected night skies.
Together, we’ll discover:
- Distant galaxies in the constellations Leo and Virgo, some located tens of millions of light-years away
- How astronomers discovered that galaxies are vast “island universes” beyond our own Milky Way
- The bright spring star Arcturus and the familiar shape of the Big Dipper high overhead
- Star clusters and deep-sky objects revealed by the darkness of the new moon
Telescopes are provided. All ages and experience levels are welcome at this friends and family friendly event.
What to bring:
- Red flashlight or headlamp: Helps preserve night vision (avoid white light)
- Warm layers: Temperatures drop quickly after sunset
- Blanket or camp chair: Makes sky-watching more comfortable
- Water and snacks: Stargazing is better when you’re hydrated and happy
- Binoculars: Many planets and bright objects look great with small optics
- Please leave dogs at home
People
Non-Profit / Community Organization
Recent Impacts
Location
4P39+CCH - Altona, Colorado
Sustainable Development Goals
