Time Travel Through the Universe

When you gaze up at the night sky, beyond the veil of stars and the glowing plane of the Milky Way, you are also looking backward in time.

Join us at the Heide Observatory for Time Travel Through the Universe, an evening dedicated to exploring how distance in space becomes a journey into the past. Although nearly all galaxies are invisible to the naked eye, our observable universe contains hundreds of billions of them, stretching tens of billions of light-years in every direction. Using our 17-inch telescope, we will tour visible galaxies and explain how the light reaching your eyes began its journey millions of years ago. Even the Andromeda Galaxy, the most distant object most people can see without optical aid, appears to us as it existed 2.5 million years ago, long before modern humans walked the Earth. This guided observing experience blends deep-sky viewing with cosmic perspective, revealing how astronomy allows us to witness the universe as it once was.

🔔 Important Event Information — Late Evening / Overnight Event (Summer)

Weather-Dependent Event:

This program requires clear skies. If cloud cover greater than 40% is forecast, the event will be canceled or rescheduled. Notification will be sent by email no later than 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Email Communication Is Critical:

Weather updates and event notices are sent to the email address used at ticket checkout. Please double-check that your email is correct and keep an eye on spam or promotions folders. If you purchase tickets using an email you rarely check, the cosmos will not notify you directly.

Comfort & Conditions:

Even on warm summer nights, temperatures can drop after sunset—dress warmer than you think you’ll need. Lower dew points can also lead to damp conditions, so blankets or chairs that can handle moisture are recommended.

Insects Exist and They Know You’re There:

Bring your favorite insect repellent. The stars are peaceful; the mosquitoes are not. We observe the universe—not the bugs—but they may still attempt first contact.

Please contact us at observatory@hawthornhollow.org.