Question 1

I never seem to get tickets... When does registration open?

Accepted Answer

Registration for an upcoming month is released on the 1st of the month prior at noon.

Question 2

I'm a UVA student. Do I need to register?

Accepted Answer

Any current undergraduate, graduate, law, or nursing student does NOT need to register to attend. You may bring one non-student guest. However, if you plan to bring a large group like a club or dorm, please contact us first. Alumni must register, regardless of graduation year.

Question 3

Do kids need registrations?

Accepted Answer

Kids are always welcome at Public Nights, and children under 4 do not require a registration. The University of Virginia expects parents or guardians to provide supervision over minors on University property during this event.

Question 4

What if I want to bring more than 5 people?

Accepted Answer

Please contact the UVA Astronomy Department by calling 434-924-7494 to speak with our administrative staff. Please do not make two separate orders.

Question 5

Is parking available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There is a private road that leads to the observatory, which is available for vehicle parking. We ask that you park perpendicular to the road to maximize space for all guests. You do not need a parking pass.

Question 6

I can no longer attend. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

If you have tickets to a Public Night but can no longer attend, please follow the directions outlined on Eventbrite's website to return your tickets. They will then become available to the public, or folks on the waitlist.

Question 7

Are masks required at the Observatory?

Accepted Answer

As of March 28, 2022, masks are OPTIONAL for people (both UVA staff and visitors) in UVA academic buildings. Some will be available for those who prefer to wear one, but they are not required. Observatory personnel may or may not be wearing masks, as it is up to the individual's personal preference.

Question 8

Are there restrooms available?

Accepted Answer

Yes- restrooms are available to all visitors. Please note, the restroom is on the first floor of the observatory at the bottom of a steep staircase. Visitors with difficulty maneuvering stairs may have difficulty accessing the restroom.

Question 9

Can I bring food?

Accepted Answer

We ask that all visitors are respectful of the space, which includes limiting the amount of food and drink you bring the the Observatory. Drinks with a lid and food in an closed container are permitted.

Question 10

Is smoking permitted?

Accepted Answer

In accordance with UVA Policy SEC-028, smoking and vaping is not permitted in or outside the Observatory. Please refer to the policy for more information.

Question 11

What happens if there is bad weather?

Accepted Answer

In the event of cloudy or rainy weather, we hold our public night's rainy program. This includes a slightly longer lecture from the astronomer and time to explore the dome room and museum. While you can't look through the telescope, you still get to learn about our facilities and history.

Question 12

Are public nights ever cancelled?

Accepted Answer

Public Nights are canceled in the event of severe weather, including thunderstorms, snow, ice, extreme cold, tornado warnings/watches, etc. Canceled visits will be communicated via email up to an hour before entry time.

Question 13

Is the clear-bag policy in effect at the Observatory?

Accepted Answer

No. The clear bag policy only applies to large-scale events hosted by the University like sporting events, graduation, concerts, etc.

Question 14

I registered for a public night, but I'm feeling sick. Can I still come?

Accepted Answer

If you are experiencing symptoms of a virus, we ask that you do not come to the observatory. Please follow the directions on how to return your tickets as described above. UVA is following the CDC recommendations around COVID-19, and more can be found on their website.

McCormick Observatory Public Nights