DELAWARE, Ohio – “Make hay while the sun shines” says the old adage and that’s what the staff at Ohio Wesleyan University’s Perkins Observatory will try to do during the long days of midsummer.
The 81-year-old observatory will host three daytime “Celebration of the Sun” events on consecutive Saturdays in July when the days are longer. The events will be held at 4:00 p.m. on July 12, 19, and 26 at the observatory (above), 3199 Columbus Pike (U.S. 23) in Delaware.
Weather permitting, the staff and visitors will discuss and observe the sun using special telescopes and eclipse glasses during the celebrations, which replace the observatory’s Friday night programs, director Tom Burns says.
Perkins staff and volunteers will help guests observe sunspots and explosions on the sun’s surface known as solar prominences, Burns said.
There will also be rocket launches, sundial demonstrations, views of a 1,000-yard model of the solar system, observatory tours and a ghost story.
When they resume, the regularly scheduled Friday evening programs will include stargazing with the facility’s 32-inch Schottland Telescope, Burns said.
Reservations are strongly recommended. Advance tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for children (17 and under), and $6 for senior citizens (62 and older). Tickets are $2 more if purchased at the door.
To reserve tickets or determine at-the-door availability, call (740) 363-1257.