DELAWARE, Ohio (WSYX) — For two weekends in July, Ohio Wesleyan University’s Perkins Observatory will transform into the “Sun Spot” as it hosts the “Celebration of the Sun” daytime skywatches. These special Saturday-only programs are scheduled from 2-4 p.m. on July 23 and 30 at the observatory, located at 3199 Columbus Pike (U.S. 23).
The “Celebration of the Sun” events will replace the observatory’s usual Friday night skywatches for the month, as the late sunset makes evening programs impractical. Weather permitting, attendees will have the opportunity to celebrate, discuss, and observe the sun using special telescopes and eclipse glasses.
“It is unsafe for people to look at the sun without the appropriate eye protection,” said observatory staff. However, guests may be able to observe sunspots and solar prominences—explosions on the sun’s surface—under the supervision of Perkins staff and volunteers.
Don Stevens, director of Ohio Wesleyan University’s Perkins Observatory, joined Good Day Columbus to shine a light on this unique program.
Additional activities during the celebration include rocket launches, sundial demonstrations, views of a 1,000-yard model of the solar system, tours of the observatory, and the popular Perkins ghost story.
Following the July events, the observatory will resume its regular Friday evening programs on August 5. Weather permitting, these skywatches will feature observations using the observatory’s 32-inch Schottland Telescope.
Reservations are strongly recommended for all Perkins Observatory events, as many programs sell out. Advance tickets are priced at $10 each and can be purchased only with a credit or debit card by calling the observatory at (740) 363-1257. Tickets bought at the door will cost an additional $2.