Ryan Observatory at Muddy Run
172 Bethesda Church Road West🌳Safely explore the trails of Muddy Run Park at night with our experienced astronomers and tour guides as they share their knowledge of the location’s geography and history. Hiking at night is an exciting and unique way to connect with the environment. By relying on your dark-adapted vision and natural light, you’ll better experience the landscape, night skies, and wildlife. You may be surprised at just how well your eyes can adapt to the darkness!
🌙 We’ll make stops at scenic locations along the way, where our astronomers will guide you through a tour of the night sky. Learn how the constellations and planets move through the sky, and how ancient explorers navigated using only the stars.
🔭Guests are encouraged to bring binoculars! We can point out star clusters and other deep sky objects for you to see with the aid of this instrument. You may also spot nocturnal birds or other animals. If the weather permits, you may also get a view through the observatory’s telescope at the end of our tour!
🔦Dim red flashlights are great for navigating potential hazards while preserving your dark vision. We’ll have some available to purchase, should you wish to have one for your future night-time endeavors.
Weather and Scheduling
The hike will proceed if we have clouds or very light rain. We will provide a weather update the day prior or morning of your reservation.
In the event of a weather or operational cancellation, we will offer rescheduled event times. Refunds may also be issued on request, less the payment processing fee of 2.9% + $0.30.
Guests may otherwise cancel (for a refund, less the service/payment processing fee of 2.9% + $0.30) or request a reschedule up to 48 hours before the scheduled start time. Refunds will not be issued after this point.
Children
Children ages 8+ are welcome. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a guardian at all times.
For more information about the observatory and upcoming events, visit our website: www.ryanobservatory.com/
Private night hikes are also available upon request. $200 minimum. Please reach out to our team via www.ryanobservatory.com/contact
May 28 - Aug 24, 2024
Ryan Observatory at Muddy Run
172 Bethesda Church Road West
Founded in 1888, the Rittenhouse Astronomical Society is one of the oldest astronomical groups in the United States.
We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides astronomical science education and programming.
Learn more at: https://www.rittenhouseastronomicalsociety.org/
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