Many parents integrate science into their young child’s life by way of going on walks in search of bugs, taking trips to the local zoo or conducting basic science experiments at home. Some people tend to forget about outside the atmosphere of Earth. Have you begun to introduce astronomy to your kids? Here are a few fascinating and fun activities and classes that will familiarize them with the cosmic night sky.
Perseid Meteor Shower
Make a wish, ooh and aah at the dazzling streaks of light from meteors, sometimes called “shooting stars.” Known to deliver a spectacular show under the summer skies, the Perseids are one of the best meteor showers to observe! You will begin watching as soon as the sky darkens. For comfort, warm clothing and hot drinks encouraged. This meet-up is for all ages. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain, fog or cloud cover cancels the event. For up to date weather conditions, call 831-659-6065. The Perseid meteor shower will occur on Friday, August 11. 8pm-10pm.
Garland Ranch Visitor Center, 700 West Carmel Valley Road (approx. 8.6 miles east of Highway 1 or 1 mile west of Laureles Grade)
Hartnell College Planetarium Children’s Shows
The J. Frederic Ching Planetarium has been enchanting audiences with the wonders of astronomy and space science for over 50 years. After millions of dollars in upgrades, the new planetarium is larger (40-foot diameter vs. previous 30-foot dia.), more spacious (80 seats vs. 45 seats), and hosts a new MediaGlobe-III projector with accompanying lighting and audio systems. The projector resolution has been increased by 50%. Contrast and visibility are also markedly improved. The planetarium also gained the ability to produce short videos in-house with a new Digistar workstation.
Children’s shows are regularly shown on Friday evenings at 5:30 pm (seating begins at 5:15 pm) The show runs 30-40 min. $4 each for admission. Some summer Tuesday matinee’s are children shows 2 pm (seating begins at 1:45 pm). Groups and schools can also request special showings of any of the dozen children’s shows available. Monday-Thursday at either 9 am,10 am, 1 pm or 2 pm. Show cost for the new planetarium is $4/person for groups less than 40 and $3/person for groups of 40 or more. Maximum capacity is 80 persons.
J. Frederic Ching Planetarium, Hartnell College, 411 Central Avenue Salinas
Fremont Peak Observatory Telescopes
The Fremont Peak Observatory is a favorite destination for families as well as school, scout, and church groups. Each year over 2,000 members of the public is treated to a free multimedia presentation by an FPOA astronomer as the Saturday evening sun sets over the Pacific. As darkness falls and the stars emerge, they gaze in wonder at night sky splendors through the eyepiece of the 30” diameter “Challenger” Newtonian telescope, and a variety of sophisticated amateur telescopes, before returning to their campsites and homes. If you have never seen the Milky Way under dark skies away from city light pollution, visit to see why astronomers have been traveling to Fremont Peak State Park for decades. These programs are free to the public - a $6 per vehicle state park fee applies. Check the website for a schedule and some star gazing tips. https://www.fpoa.net/
Fremont Peak Observatory, 6878 San Juan County Road, San Juan Bautista
Santa Cruz Astronomy Club Star Parties
The Santa Cruz Astronomy Club serves all communities in Santa Cruz County and neighboring areas. Their emphasis is telescope observing, family participation, and public enjoyment of the wonders of the starry night. Many of their club members volunteer to provide a viewing experience to the public. They may also randomly do sidewalk astronomy around the area, as well as school and campgrounds.
The next star party will is scheduled for Friday, August 11th at Quail Hollow Ranch, 800 Quail Hollow Road in Felton. Check out their website for more information on joining them. http://astronomy.santa-cruz.ca.us/
Santa Cruz Astronomy Club
Whether you star gaze on through a telescope, in a high-tech planetarium, or out in your very own backyard, it can be a magnificent and memorable experience for anyone. Your children will be amazed at the enormity of the universe and beyond. A lesson they can enjoy building upon as technology reveals more about the unknown vast astronomical worlds.
Harvey West Scout House, 326 Evergreen Street Santa Cruz