Come view the Moon and other night sky objects during International Observe the Moon Night. This stargazing event will take place outside the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia.

Join Museum staff and members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club for a view of the night sky. Experienced people will help you to observe the Moon, as well as planets and stars.

Telescopes will be provided by Smithsonian and pre-approved members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club. No other personal telescopes are permitted at the event.

Details

  • Stargazing is free and open to the public. 
  • The event is weather permitting and may be cancelled due to rain, clouds, and other poor visibility. For last-minute updates, call the Astronomy Education number at 202-633-2517.
  • We recommend bringing layers of clothing and a small flashlight covered with red cellophane or brown paper.
  • Parking is free after 4:00 pm. Please park at the south end of the main parking lot, and consider dimming your headlights as you approach.
  • Stargazing is located in the bus lot at the south end of the Museum's parking lot. Look for red lanterns to help guide you to the telescopes.
Directions instructing visitors to park in the main parking lot but walk to the bus parking lot where the event takes place.
    Astronomy Moon (Earth) Telescopes Solar System
    Sponsored by
    Thomas W. Haas Foundation
    Otto Haas Charitable Trust
    The Waterman Trust
    Wyncote Foundation
     How to attend Bus Parking Lot

    Directions

    • Approach the Museum from the exit off Route 28
    • Keep left after the parking entrance gate, and take the fifth driveway on the right to enter the south end of the main parking lot.
    • Once parked, cross the road that’s close to the Museum and take the walkway through the trees to the stargazing area. Red lanterns will guide you.