Where:

Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center

When:

Fri, Nov 10, 2023 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Cost:

Register for This Event

Welcome to the Frosty Drew Observatory Stargazing Nights! Every Friday night (weather permitting) we open our Observatory, Science Center, Sky Theatre, and telescopes to the skies and offer free stargazing and astronomy to anybody interested in observing with us.

Tonight's forecasts are calling for mostly clear sky conditions with cooler temps. The new Moon will occur on Monday morning, which will keep the 3% waning crescent Moon in the morning sky. Which will keep the sky super dark over Frosty Drew tonight, making for stunning views of thousands of stars and a lingering view of the Milky Way overhead. A perfect night for observing all the amazing deep sky objects visible from Ninigret Park.

We will open the Observatory, Courtyard, Science Center, and Sky Theatre at 7:00 pm tonight. In the Observatory, our 24 inch telescope will start with a view of Saturn. After which, we will show off several nebulae and star clusters. Jupiter and its four Galilean Moons are on the list as well as a view of Uranus. Depending on how cold it may be tonight, Courtyard telescopes may be available as they show off the Andromeda Galaxy, Perseus Double Cluster, the Pleiades, and other wide field targets. In the Science Center and Sky Theatre temps will be warm, offering a respite from the colder outdoor and Observatory temperatures. On screen we will show our regular feature of celestial objects photographed at Frosty Drew Observatory, and exhibits will be on display. We will close up at 10:00 pm.

Overall, tonight looks like a fabulous night to be out. The sky will be clear, we have several planets in view, and our telescope is amazing at viewing dim objects that require a super dark sky to observe. It will be cold, probably the coldest night yet this year for our events, but temps will not drop below freezing during our session. Regardless, winter attire should be worn when visiting, including a hat, wind breaking parka, boots, and hand protection. Staying warm will make the difference between a night out in the cold, and a fabulous experience under the cosmos. So make the trip out to Ninigret Park and celebrate the amazing view at Frosty Drew, tonight.

Tickets are required for visitors to attend this event. Tickets are free, though a suggested donation of $5 per person, either online or at the event, is very appreciated.

Register for This Event

If you are looking for that awesome astronomy thing to do or just want a night out to experience the cosmos under the darkest skies in Rhode Island, then this is your chance.

Take a moment to catch up on some cool astronomy happenings this week in:
A Celebration of Space - November 10, 2023

Be sure to subscribe to the Frost Drew Observatory mailing list, follow us on Twitter (@FrostyDrewOBSY) or on Facebook to receive status updates about our Stargazing Nights program and more.

Preparing for Your Visit:

Check out our page on Visiting Frosty Drew Observatory to learn more about what to expect at the Observatory and better help you prepare for your visit.

Read about our Observatory Dome Access Passes, which are available on a first come first serve basis.

How to Prepare for Autumn Conditions: The second half of autumn at Frosty Drew will bring cooler than expected temperatures. The wide open environment, and outdoor design of the event, will directly expose visitors to the elements. Dressing for winter temperatures is highly recommended when visiting during this time of year. The Observatory building is not climate controlled and the temperatures inside the building must match the outside air temperatures for correct operations. A wind breaking jacket, hat, and warm shoes are necessary when visiting.

Please note that we do not allow any white lights on our campus or in Ninigret Park from dusk - dawn, with the exception of low beam headlights while in motion. This is to ensure an equally awesome view of the night sky for all and to allow for the use of light sensitive astronomical equipment. Learn more about why we have this requirement in The Red Light District.