Star Party: James Webb Space Telescope First Image Release Event

Updated: 9/1/2022 at 9:19PM

Recommended for all ages

Join us at the Bell Museum as we celebrate the James Webb Space Telescope and its upcoming decade of science! Doors open at 7:45pm for a pre-recorded NASA stream and indoor activities. Starting at 8:30pm, our telescopes will be set up to observe the Moon, Saturn, and our favorite deep space objects (weather permitting!).

Registration is requested through Eventbrite.

Register Here

FAQs

What is a Star Party?
A Star Party is an evening of astronomical celebration, exploration, and fun. At a Star Party, you’ll find hands-on activities and demonstrations from Bell educators and community partners throughout the museum. If there are clear skies, you will be able to look through high-powered telescopes at astronomical objects. Additionally, there are typically free planetarium shows that are offered on a first-come-first-serve basis. Oftentimes, Star Parties have special themes or topics.

What time should I be there?
There is no official “start” to the party—you can drop in anytime during the window of time listed above.

Will there be planetarium shows?
Oftentimes, there are free, first-come-first-serve planetarium shows. However, at this specific Star Party, there will be an ongoing stream of the new James Webb Space Telescope images—just drop by the planetarium to see!

Is the event weather dependent?
The event is rain or shine, however, the telescopes are not. If there is rain or cloudy skies, there will not be telescopes outside—but there will be plenty to see inside the museum!

Will this event also be offered virtually?
This event is only offered in-person and not virtually. If you are looking for virtual astronomy content, you can check out some of our pre-recorded Virtual Star Parties on our YouTube channel!

Minnesota’s Astronomy Classroom programming is generously supported by Ruth & John Huss.