Explore the Night Sky
with Young's Observatory
OUR PURPOSE
Thanks to the generous grant funds provided by The Oscar and Elsa Mayer Family Foundation, we were able to acquire Celestron's renowned altazimuth telescope system, the CPC Deluxe HD, along with all the necessary equipment to observe the breathtaking skies of the Northwoods. This telescope is highly regarded by experienced amateur astronomers and was also the preferred choice of the late Stephen Hawking.
At Young's, our mission is to offer unique experiences that would otherwise be difficult to access in our local area. By leveraging our state-of-the-art telescope and associated equipment, we aim to provide captivating astronomical observations and educational opportunities to our school districts. Our goal is to inspire curiosity, foster a love for science, and enhance the learning experiences of students and the broader community alike.
With the support of the Foundation, we strive to bring astronomy closer to people, creating opportunities for stargazing, celestial exploration, and deeper understanding of the universe. We are committed to making astronomy and science accessible, exciting, and engaging for all ages, contributing to the enrichment of our community's educational landscape.
Join us at Young's as we embark on a journey to unravel the wonders of the cosmos and spark a sense of wonder in the hearts and minds of those who visit us. Whether you are an experienced astronomer or a curious learner, we have something to offer for everyone. Let the stars guide us as we explore the mysteries of the night sky together.
EDUCATIONAL
At Young's, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to work closely with the Forest Park and West Iron County School districts in the upcoming years. Thanks to the support of the Foundation, our aim is to bring the wonders of astronomy closer to the students in these districts.
Collaborating with the dedicated teaching staff, we aspire to become an enduring presence within the schools of our county, fostering a long-term partnership in the pursuit of astronomical knowledge. By integrating our expertise and resources into the curriculum, we aim to provide enriching educational experiences centered around our night skies.
SOCIAL
We are delighted to announce that Young's will be hosting monthly star parties, featuring the breathtaking wonders of the night sky. These exciting events will be open to the public, free of charge, and suitable for all ages.
Our star parties will provide a unique opportunity for individuals and families to come together and experience the beauty of the cosmos. Under the guidance of our knowledgeable staff and volunteers, participants will have the chance to peer through our top-performing altazimuth telescope system. Witnessing the celestial objects up close will undoubtedly leave lasting impressions and ignite a sense of awe and wonder.
CLUB
An overarching goal is to form an Astronomy Club dedicated to the operation and use of the telescope at Young's! Such a club would be an excellent way to engage enthusiasts of all ages in the exploration of the night sky.
An Astronomy Club provides a supportive and collaborative environment for individuals who share a passion for astronomy to come together, learn from one another, and further their knowledge and skills in the field. It offers a platform to delve deeper into the study of celestial objects, learn about different observation techniques, and discuss the latest discoveries in astronomy.
2024 STAR PARTY SCHEDULE
Monday, April 8 - Solar Eclipse Viewing - 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm
May 18-25 - Lunar-Full Moon Week
June 1-8 - Deep-Sky Objects (DSO) Week
August 3-10 - Deep-Sky Objects (DSO) Week
September 14-21 - Lunar-Super Moon Week
(Target date: Sept 17 - partial lunar eclipse)
October 26-November 2 - DSO, Saturn, & Jupiter Week
Starting time is 9 pm
Star Parties are listed in week blocks with flexible scheduling based on weather conditions. This allows for adaptability and ensures that participants have the best possible viewing experience. We'll always plan for the first day of the week block, and a decision will be made by 11 am on the viewing day.
STAR PARTY STATUS
NEXT PARTY: SEPTEMBER 14-21 LUNAR-SUPER MOON WEEK
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 IS A GO!
Hello, night sky lovers. Young's Astronomy Club will hold star parties monthly from March through November.
STAR PARTY: WHAT TO EXPECT/GUIDELINES
- Please AVOID USING WHITE LIGHT. Do not use a white flashlight. The human eye requires 30 minutes to fully adapt to darkness. If exposed to white light, even for a second, this “dark adaptation” is lost and the thirty-minute process starts all over again. Using a dime red light (a flashlight with a red filter for example) is appreciated at star parties. Red “glow sticks” may also be available at the observatory for a small donation – check with a Young’s staff member for more information.
- CHILDREN ARE WELCOME WHEN ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT. Consider carefully the child’s age and attention span before brining them along. Star gazing can quickly become boring for younger children. If you do bring children, please supervise them at all times for their safety and the safety of the astronomical equipment in use at the star party. No running or playing in the observatory or around the telescope. Also, please do not have your children wear shoes with flashing lights.
- DRESS APPROPRIATELY. It can become much cooler than you think during observing hours. Bring a coat, gloves, hat, extra layers and especially heavy socks and boots in the colder months.
- BUGS, particularly mosquitoes, are a nuisance in the summer. If you have a spray repellant, only apply it downwind and well away from the telescope.
- PHOTOGRAPHS. It is understandable that you may want to take photos of the observatory or of what you are viewing through the telescope eyepiece. However, once the sky becomes dark avoid using a flash to take any pictures. Regarding images through the telescope, we generally would give you additional time to take a photo, but if there are others waiting in line please limit this to about 10 to 15 seconds. We may ask you to step out of line and return with your cell camera on an attachment we can provide once the line has gone down.
- NO SMOKING is allowed on the observation deck. This includes vapes. Please use the front entrance for any smoking needs.
- NO FOOD OR DRINK NEAR THE TELESCOPE on the observing deck. The telescope can be easily damaged by someone accidentally dropping something onto the telescope optics.
- RESPECT OTHERS. Young’s Astronomy Club is open to all, regardless of age, gender, ethnic background, religion, etc. Inappropriate comments or actions will not be tolerated, and after a suitable warning, offending parties will be asked to leave.
- DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS! Young’s Astronomy Club members enjoy talking about their hobby and are often willing to share their love of the universe with you. But also consider that some members may be involved in specific observing activities or projects that might limit their ability to answer your questions in detail.
- HAVE FUN! Star parties are meant to be enjoyed by all!