Karl G. Henize Observatory
Drop by, look through a telescope, and prepare to be awed.
Free Public Viewing Sessions begin March 17, 2012
Experience the wonder of the universe and the excitement of discovery. Not only can you observe objects near and far,volunteers provide interpretation of what is seen.
| 2012 Dates |
Time |
Event |
Location |
| Saturday, March 17 |
7:30-9:30 p.m. |
Opening Day. Cosmic Explorers sign-up. |
Observatory |
| Saturday, April 14 |
7:30-9:30 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Saturday, April 28 |
5:30-10 p.m. |
Astronomy Day: Exhibits, lectures, viewing. |
Observatory and Building Z |
| Saturday, May 12 |
7:30-9:30 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Sunday, May 20 |
6:30 p.m. |
Partial Solar Eclipse runs from 7:22 to sunset. |
Observatory |
| Saturday, June 2 |
8:30-10 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Tuesday, June 5 |
3 p.m.-Sunset |
Venus Transit. Next one will be 2117! |
Observatory |
| Saturday, June 16 |
8:30-10 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Saturday, June 30 |
8:30-10 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Saturday, July 14 |
8:30-10 p.m. |
Globular clusters in the summer sky. |
Observatory |
| Saturday, July 28 |
8:30-10 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Saturday, August 11 |
8:30-10 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Saturday, August 25 |
8:30-10 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Saturday, September 8 |
7:30-9:30 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Saturday, September 22 |
7:30-9:30 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Saturday, October 6 |
7:30-9:30 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Saturday, November 3 |
7:30-9:30 p.m. |
Viewing |
Observatory |
| Saturday, November 17 |
7:30-9:30 p.m. |
Last session until March 2013. |
Observatory |
Special Events
-
Saturday, April 28 is Astronomy Day. Join the Northwest Suburban Astronomers and Harper faculty for a fun evening of talks and heavenly viewing.
-
Tuesday, June 5, 2012 - Transit of Venus.
About Karl G. Henize
In 2000, the Observatory was officially named in honor of Karl G. Henize because of his accomplishments as an astronomer and for his dedication to fulfilling his dream of reaching space. His name on the observatory will serve as an inspiration to the youth of today and tomorrow. Dr. Loren W. Acton, Astronaut, Astronomer and Henize shipmate dedicated the building in his honor.
About the Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope
The main telescope is a Meade 14" Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope (SCT) on an Astrophysics 1200GTO mount. This allows Harper faculty to do research grade work in the Henize Observatory.
Cosmic Explorer Program for Grades 3 to 6
The Cosmic Explorer program allows children in grades 3 to 6 to experience the discovery of the night sky at Henize Observatory on the Harper College campus.
Cosmic Explorers attend three to four observation sessions throughout the 2011-2012 school year, learn to locate stars and constellations, and observe deep sky wonders through telescopes at the observatory. As explorers complete their Night Sky Passport, they can earn NASA materials. Those who successfully complete their Passport for the year will attend a recognition reception at Harper College.
The school in the Harper College district that enrolls the most students in the Cosmic Explorer program (25 min/school) can win a Star Party for their school, hosted by Harper College faculty.
Cosmic Explorer Flyer PDF
Cosmic Explorer Enrollment Form PDF
Cosmic Explorer Information for Parents and Teachers PDF
Docent Program for Grades 7 to 12
The Henize Observatory Student Docent Program is a unique, service based learning opportunity at Harper College. Those selected for the Student Docent Program can:
- Learn to operate telescopes
- Assist with hands-on learning activities
- Learn about the universe and share that knowledge with students and adults Help create multimedia educational materials
- Meet other students interested in science
- Fulfill community service requirements for your school A unique experience for college applications
Student Docent Info and Application PDF
