This week in space brings a meteor shower, a launch, and a free day at the museum. Even more exciting, as Chicago continues to open up, so does space outreach and observing events in the city.
Here’s your guide to this week in space!
Scopes at the Adler, Adler Planetarium, Monday, August 9th, 8:45 pm
In place of the immensely popular Scopes in the City events the Adler held throughout the city pre-COVID, the planetarium is now back to in person observing sessions. For now, the events are being held at the Planetarium, in the Doane Observatory, and in extremely limited numbers. You will need to purchase a ticket to attend the experience. Tickets go on sale the morning of here: Adler Planetarium
Northrop Grumman CRS-16 Launch, Wallops Flight Facility, August 10th, 4:30 pm CDT
NASA and Northrop Grumman are launching the 16th resupply mission to the Space Station this week. The launch will be broadcasted on NASA TV Live beginning at 4:30 pm Chicago time. Watch here: NASA Live
Museum of Science and Industry Free Day, August 11th
This Wednesday the Museum of Science and Industry is free to Illinois residents. The Henry Crown Space Center is part of the general admission ticket, where you can explore space history and the future of space exploration. More information here: MSI Free Days
Perseid Meteor Shower 2021, Peaks August 12th
The Perseid meteor shower peaks this week on the morning of the 12th so if you can stay up it would be worth going outside to look up. Anytime after midnight until dawn there will be numerous meteors streaking across the night sky from the north.
Star Party with Chicago Astronomer, Chicago Women’s Park & Gardens, Friday August 13th, 7:30-10:30 pm
The Chicago Astronomer is back to work in the parks, sharing his knowledge of the night sky with Chicagoans. Join in for a family friendly and free star party that includes an astro chat and the chance to view the cosmos through telescopes.
Naperville AA Public Stargazing, Saturday August 14th, 8:30-10:30pm, NAA Education Center
The Naperville Astronomical Association is kicking off its return to in person events with a public stargazing session. Join the club for a tour of the night sky and visit the observatory that the club operates. Event information here: NAA Calendar
