Theodor Jacobsen Observatory Open House – July 7th at 9 PM

Explore UW's history observatory and discover the night sky through our century-old telescope at a free open house!

Join us for an open house at Theodor Jacobsen Observatory, an evening of stargazing, storytelling, and cosmic exploration open to all! Our open house shows are led by passionate UW students and astronomy enthusiasts who can tell you about the history of all of the artifacts in the observatory, show you how to use the on-site telescopes, and answer your wildest astronomy questions.

What to Expect:

• An 45-50 minute long presentation by a student or member of our astronomy community, followed by Q&A.
• Following the presentation, open exploration of the observatory and small group tours of the telescope dome.
• Weather permitting, we will open the dome and point the telescope at an interesting stellar object, a planet, or the moon! Everyone will get a chance to press their eye up to the telescope and experience the wonder of the universe for themselves.
• While you are waiting for your group to be called for your dome tour, UW student volunteers will have science-demos set up on the front lawn (including spectral lamps and smaller telescopes).

This is a free event, but registration is required due to limited seating and dome capacity.

More infomation:

Location

The observatory is located about 100 yards south of the north campus entrance at NE 45th and 17th NE. Try entering “Theodor Jacobsen Observatory” or GPS coordinates “47.660503, -122.309424” into your favorite map program. The TJO is a bit difficult to see from the entrance road, Memorial Drive, since it lies is in a clump of trees immediately east of the parking kiosks. The Burke Museum is nearby.

Pay parking is available in the adjoining lot “N5” for $6.50 per car (the rate can change). Spaces are usually wide open near the observatory each evening. See Directions & Parking page for prepaid permits or pay using PayByPhone on your phone after you arrive. As a last resort you can also get parking passes for lot N5 at the parking kiosk at the entrance to the UW Underground Parking Garage east of NE 40th and 15th NE.

Alternately, use light rail to the U District U-Link station (Brooklyn and 45th) and walk three blocks east on 45th to the TJO. During UW holidays you might find parking on an adjoining street (where many UW students park their cars).

Accessibility

There is an ADA ramp to the classroom inside the observatory; however, access to the dome is possible only via a narrow wooden stairway built in the 1890s.

If your group requires any accommodations for any special learning needs, an ASL translator or non-English language translator, please write to tjores@uw.edu.

Code of Conduct

In keeping with the University-wide Codes of Conduct, Theodor Jacobsen Observatory is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming space for all visitors. We firmly emphasize the importance of respecting diversity and embracing people of all backgrounds, identities, and beliefs. Hate speech or discrimination based on race, gender, religion, ethnicity, or any personal characteristics will not be tolerated. We believe in mutual respect and the value of diverse perspectives. Your cooperation in upholding these values ensures that the observatory remains a place where everyone can explore the mysteries of the universe in an atmosphere of respect and shared humanity.