As spring approaches, so do observing opportunities. Until then, take advantage of astronomy club meetings to introduce yourself to the night sky, NASA launches to the space station, and even plan a trip to a NASA center.

This is what’s happening this week in space in Chicago!

‘Scopes in the City

Eola Road Branch, Aurora Public Library, March 3rd, 6-7:30 pm

The Adler’s astronomers bring their scopes out to the suburbs of Aurora for the public to observe the skies. Depending on the weather and time of day, participants can observe the Sun, Moon, and planets. Event info here: Adler

Naperville Astronomical Society Monthly Meeting

Fermilab, Batavia, March 3rd, 7:30-9 pm

This month’s NAA meeting is taking place at Fermilab, where there will be a special presentation on the versatility of CCD’s by Fermilab’s Donna Kubik. Meeting info here: NAA 

SpaceX Dragon Resupply Mission

Cape Canaveral, Florida, March 6th, 10:50 pm CST

SpaceX and NASA are launching the 20th resupply mission of the Dragon spacecraft to the International Space Station. You can view the launch and pre-launch activities on NASA TV, or live on YouTube, beginning at 10:30 pm CST. Live Coverage here: NASA TV

Public Observing at Dearborn Observatory

Dearborn Observatory, Northwestern University Campus, March 6th, 9-10 pm

Every Friday night the staff at the Dearborn Observatory open for public observing, with walk ins starting at 9 pm. Guests can look forward to a quick tour of the facility and then the chance to view objects in the night sky through the observatory’s historic 18.5″refracting telescope. More information here: Dearborn Observatory

Road Trip Worthy

These space events require planning and a road trip, but need to be on your radar now.

NASA Glenn Public Tours

Cleveland, Ohio, April 1st 2020, *Registration opens March 4th*

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of humans living in space on the International Space Station (ISS), NASA’s Glenn Research Center is opening its doors to the public for monthly tours. Each month a different facility will be opened, April through October. You need to plan ahead for this opportunity though, registration is required and opens one month ahead of time. Event information and registration here: NASA Glenn