After more than a decade of inviting visitors to observe the wonders of our universe, the Phoebe Waterman Haas Public Observatory is now entering a period of revitalization and transformation. While we transform, we are closed to the public. We expect that a brand-new, permanent Observatory will open on the east terrace next to the Bezos Learning Center.

In the meantime, you can explore other astronomy programs by visiting our events page.

Astronomy programming is made possible by support from the Thomas W. Haas Foundation, the Otto Haas Charitable Trust, The Waterman Trust, and the Wyncote Foundation. 

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Astronomy Program One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC
 Thursdays and Sundays at 10:30 am

In this free planetarium show, join Big Bird and Elmo as they explore the night sky with Hu Hu Zhu, a Muppet from "Zhima Jie," the Chinese co-production of Sesame Street.

 Story Time Story Time: The Sun is My Favorite Star Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA
 Tuesdays and Thursdays in April 2024 at 11:00 am and 11:30 am

Join us to learn all about what to expect during an eclipse and get ready to watch with your family!

 Story Time Story Time: Eclipse National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC
 Thursdays in April 2024 at 11:00 am

Join us to learn all about what to expect during an eclipse and get ready to watch with your family! 

About Phoebe Waterman Haas

Phoebe Waterman Haas received her doctorate in astronomy from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1913 — one of the first American women to earn such a degree. She also studied at the historic Lick Observatory near San Jose, California. She is believed to be the first woman to directly use the Lick telescope, which with its 36” lens was one of the largest telescopes in the world at that time.
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