Universe In The Park
The Minnesota Institute for Astrophysics hosted in 2022 another “Universe in the Park,” the second summer telescope observing program after missing 2020 due to Covid-19 concerns.
These star-gazing evenings at Minnesota parks and nature centers were presented in association with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Three Rivers Park District, and the Dodge Nature Center not-for-profit organization.
| Date | Day | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| July 1 | Friday | William O’Brien State Park |
| July 8 | Friday | Dodge Nature Center (West St. Paul) |
| July 9 | Saturday | Lowry Nature Center (Carver campground) |
| July 16 | Saturday | Eastman Nature Center |
| July 22 | Friday | Afton State Park |
| July 23 | Saturday | Nerstrand Big Woods State Park |
| July 29 | Friday | Dodge Nature Center (Cottage Grove) |
| July 30 | Saturday | Eastman Nature Center |
| August 5 | Friday | William O’Brien State Park |
| August 6 | Saturday | Lowry Nature Center (At the nature center) |
| August 12 | Friday | Gooseberry Falls State Park |
| August 13 | Saturday | Tettegouche State Park |
| August 19 | Friday | Mille Lacs Kathio State Park |
| August 20 | Saturday | Father Hennepin State Park |
| August 27 | Saturday | Afton State Park |
The Institute for Astrophysics, part of the University of Minnesota’s College of Science and Engineering, hopes to convey the excitement of astronomical research and amateur astronomy.
The Minnesota Space Grant Consortium helps support Universe in the Park.
Each viewing evening began with a short talk and slide show, and questions from the audience were encouraged. After the presentation, if weather allowed, attendees were able to view the sky through multiple 8-inch reflecting telescopes. Free star maps from Skymaps.com were provided.
Presentations covered a wide variety of astronomical topics, including the history of matter, the solar system, galaxies, and how astronomers “see” outside the visible spectrum.
Universe in the Park is headed by University of Minnesota faculty member Evan Skillman and graduate student Nico Adams.
The events returned in Summer 2021 after missing Summer 2020 due to concerns over the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Universe in the Park” website
“Universe @ Home” website
Public Telescope Viewing website
Skymaps.com
“Universe @ Home” YouTube Channel
Dodge Nature Center
Three Rivers Park District
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
July 21, 2020 – Minnesota Institute for Astrophysics
Introduces “Universe @ Home” – mspmag.com
