Become an astronomer using our solar-filtered telescopes. We will be there to help you observe the Sun, Moon, and other objects in space, as well as answer any questions you have.
- Our Observatory is free.
- We are open to the public, weather permitting.
- Follow @airandspace on Twitter for weather and closure updates, or ask at the Museum's Welcome Center.
Accessibility: The Observatory dome and terrace are accessible via ramp or steps. Written and touchable explanatory materials are available.
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Check out videos from our telescope on our Ustream channel with views of of the Sun, Moon, planets, and more.
Questions? Email us: SIObservatory@si.edu.
This image of the Sun was taken on December 28, 2011 at 12:35 pm EST. Two hydrogen-alpha filters were used, increasing the contrast between the bright plages (typically found near sunspot groups) and dark filaments. The double-stacked filters do not cast even illumination, however, causing the bright stripe across the bottom of the Sun.
There is significant sunspot activity on the Sun today. The filaments and prominences, particularly the bright prominence to the upper right, are sites of other magnetic activity.
The bright prominence erupted and dissipated about 24 hours later, as seen by the Solar Dynamics Observatory.
Telescope: 60mm Hydrogen-alpha telescope with double-stacked filter.
Camera: Lumenera SKYnyx 2-2M
Phoebe Waterman Haas Public Observatory