Reaching for the Stars at the Rutherfurd Observatory

Department of Astronomy's Public Outreach Programs

The historic Rutherfurd Observatory resides on the top of Columbia University's Pupin Physics Laboratory and is one of the best places in Manhattan to view the stars. The Columbia Department of Astronomy offers three public outreach programs: Open Nights, Family Astro, and Educational Outreach Programs. All three programs are offered from September to May.Outreach programs have been offered through the Department of Astronomy for more than 25 years. The Department of Astronomy serves between 500 and 1,000 people per year, depending on the year's astronomical events. The recent close encounter with Mars, for example, increased the observatory's visitation numbers considerably.

Open Nights. Approximately two evenings per month from September to May, the roof is open to the general public, offering visitors an opportunity to view the stars through an assortment of telescopes. Knowledgeable volunteers assist the public in identifying objects in the night sky and offer insight and information about current astronomical issues.

Family Astro. One Saturday each month, the Family Astro program invites parents and children to explore astronomy through a variety of fun, hands-on activities. One activity included making sundials and talking about the historical uses of these tools. Another involved melting candy to study the effects of the sun. The programs are tailored to children ages 6 to 10. Because space is limited, sign-up for these programs is requested in advance by e-mailing observe@astro.columbia.edu.

Educational Outreach Programs. The Observatory staff hosts tours and activities for New York City school groups. The Department of Astronomy also accommodates special requests to visit schools. Off-site visits are arranged on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Andreea Petric at andreea@astro.columbia.edu to discuss your school's needs.
Other educational groups, such as scout groups, are welcome to contact the observatory if interested in scheduling special sessions. A number of dates are available to accommodate these requests, but we recommend that interested groups book their event early because dates fill up fast.