Maryland Space Grant Observatory
Observatory Status
Next Open House
Stay tuned for the date of our next open house.
Pandemic Update: Our university restrictions have gradually relaxed and we are once again able to accommodate some guests. For the time being our events will be irregularly scheduled and limited in number. All guests must follow the relevant university covid-19 policies. This includes masking while indoors, including within the Observatory itself. We look forward to resuming normal operations and once again hosting regular public events as soon as we are able. In the meantime, check out this post and the linked article on astronomy during the pandemic. One day soon, we hope to invite you once again to come and observe the stars and planets with us, any Friday evening that looks like clear skies!
Observatory Open Houses are generally held on Friday evenings, weather permitting, starting after dusk. Opening and closing times vary with the seasons, weather and other factors. Checking this page after 4 p.m. the day of an event is the best way to be informed. (The former Observatory telephone “hotline” is no longer being updated regularly.)
View directions for Observatory Open Houses; or check the calendar of upcoming events.
The Morris W. Offit Telescope is the major observing instrument located under the Stanley D. and Joan F. Greenblatt Dome, on the roof of the Bloomberg Center.