Where:

Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center

When:

Fri, Sep 5, 2025 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Cost:

$6 per person over four years of age

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

Tonight's forecasts are calling for mostly clear sky conditions with a chance of heavy wildfire smoke. The 95% waxing gibbous Moon will be with us for most of the night and will significantly brighten up the night sky. If smoke can stay minimal, we could have a fantastic night, but even with heavy smoke, the views of the Moon should be okay.

We’ll open the Observatory and Science Center at 8:00 pm tonight. In the Observatory we will start with views of the waxing gibbous Moon and binary star systems. As the night progresses we will attempt for views of anything the sky offers. Courtyard telescopes will showcase the Moon at different fields of view and once Saturn rises above the treeline, views of the rings will be available. In the Sky Theatre we will show our regular feature of celestial objects photographed at Frosty Drew Observatory, and the Science Center will be open with exhibits. We’ll close up at 10:00 pm.

Overall, tonight has the prospects of a good night. We can expect mostly clear sky conditions with a bit of wind. There is a threat of wildfire smoke passing through the region, though forecasts are variable, and we could see a lot less than expected. If making the long drive, keep in mind that the bright 95% gibbous Moon will outshine everything in the sky but the brightest stars and planets. So no dark sky viewing tonight. Though if smoke stays minimal, we could have excellent views of the Moon and Saturn. So stop by for a night with the Moon and Saturn.

Tickets are required for visitors to attend this event. Inline with our mission to keep costs as low as possible, tickets are $6 per person ages 5 and older. Tickets can be purchased online or at the event until the event sells out.

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

Be sure to subscribe to the Frost Drew Observatory mailing list and follow us on Instagram 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.

How to Prepare for Autumn Conditions: The Frosty Drew Observatory is located inside Ninigret Park and borders the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge. Insects and arachnids are a concern when visiting the Frosty Drew campus. We have observed mosquitoes, green head flies, deer flies, ticks, biting ants, and more. Please read the Mosquitoes and Insects section on our Visiting the Observatory page to familiarize yourself with adequate preparation measures.

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.