“Look at the stars. It won’t fix the economy. It won’t stop wars. But it’s important. It helps you remember that you and your problems are both infinitesimally small and conversely that you area piece of an amazing and vast universe.” -Kate Bartolotta
Photo Source Lake County Astronomical Society Website
There is something magic about staring into space and attempting to absorb the vast regions above you. Astronomers once thought that the heavens were really a blanket with pin points of light peeking through. But now we know that we are truly seeing galaxies that stretch beyond what we can fathom or imagine. Here in Lake County, we have the ability to get beyond the city lights and street lamps in order to peer into outer space. Read on to find out where you and your family can try your hand at astronomy this summer.
The Lake County Astronomical Society sponsors Astronomy Under the City Lights programs at local libraries for visitors of all ages to view the moon in different phases.
Fox Lake Library
August 8th, 7:30 p.m – 9:00 p.m.
255 E. Grand Ave., Fox Lake | (847) 587-0198
Wauconda Area Library October 10th, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. 801 N. Main St, Wauconda | (847) 526-6225
Waukegan Public Library November 9th, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
128 N. County St., Waukegan | (847) 623-2041
The Society also holds it’s monthly meeting at the Volo Bog on the 3rd Friday of every month. The meetings start at 7 and are open to the public. The public star party begins at approximately 9:30 pm weather permitting. Guests are encouraged to join in viewing many astronomical objects using member binoculars and telescopes. Next event is August 19. Worth the Trip:Photo Source Yerkes Observatory Website
Just over the border past Lake Geneva, the Yerkes Observatory owns the largest refractor telescope ever built in the world. The observatory is open for tours every Saturday, and during the week, depending on the month. Please check the observatory’s schedule for exact dates and times. Nighttime viewings are also available depending on the date and weather, beginning at 9:30 p.m. and last two hours. Nighttime viewing costs vary, and depend upon the telescope you choose. Reservations are required for nighttime viewing.
If you’d like to do some star searching of your own, join the Museum of Science and Industry for their Summer Brain Games. They are all about space this year! You can also check out any number of star chart apps for your devices that help teach you to identify planets and stars. You can also track the International Space Station here to see when it’s traveling over your house.
Where is your favorite place to see the stars in Lake County?
Jessica is a mom of 3 girls from Spring Grove, IL. Next to her relationship with the Lord, her other passions include cooking, playing the violin, photography, and helping other moms to realize their true potential.
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