Observatory Events
Our public astronomy events invite visitors of all ages to engage with the universe through hands-on experiences, guided observations, and conversation with faculty and students. Join us to connect science, curiosity, and community under the stars.
Space Nights
Learn about what's up in the night sky at Space Nights, beginning with a half-hour interactive presentation by department students and/or faculty on space news or recent astronomy discoveries, followed by observing through telescopes when it's clear. Events are aimed at high school level and above, but all visitors are welcome. Registration is not required. Space Nights will start in mid-August, on Wednesdays at 9 p.m.
Kids' Nights
Join us for kid-friendly space-related activities led by Wesleyan students, including stargazing with telescopes when it's clear. Events are aimed at elementary school ages but are open to all. Free registration is required through Middletown Parks and Rec for admittance. Please provide the name under which you registered at the door. Kids' Nights are held 3-4 Friday nights per semester.
Weekend Observing Nights
Organized and hosted by the Astronomical Society of Greater Hartford (ASGH), monthly Saturday observing sessions use our refurbished 20" refracting telescope. Additionally, we strive to offer at least one night of observing during Homecoming and Reunion and Commencement weekends.
LGBTQ+ Events
We're proud to partner with various organizations, such as Wesleyan’s Women In Science, The Resource Center, The Office of Equity & Inclusion, and the City of Middletown Pride Commission, and more, for our annual Star GAYzing event. The event features observing through telescopes, goods from local LGBTQ+ businesses, talks on LGBTQ+ topics in astronomy, a planetarium show, and more. All ages, genders, identities, and majors are welcome!
Sturm Lecture
In memory of Wesleyan alumnus Kenneth E. Sturm ’42 and his passion for astronomy, the annual Sturm Memorial Lecture features distinguished astronomers sharing current trends and groundbreaking research in astronomy and the sciences. The series has hosted notable speakers with international prominence and covered topics like the Mars rovers, the origins of the Earth, life in space, and the evolution and large-scale structure of the universe.
Astronomy Colloquia
Astronomy Colloquia feature world experts presenting cutting-edge research on topics from protostars to black holes and beyond. These events expose students to current developments in the field, encourage intellectual engagement, and foster networking opportunities between students, faculty, and visiting scholars.
Visit Us
Van Vleck Observatory
96 Foss Hill Dr.
Middletown, CT 06459
Events Information
Stef Dinneen
860-685-2130
astronomy@wesleyan.edu