Open House Hours

The Washburn open house schedule is listed on the department event calendar. In general, the open house sessions are scheduled according to the following rules:

  • January to March: 7:30-9:30 PM, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays
  • April and May: 9:00-11:00 PM, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays
  • June to August: 9:00-11:00 PM, every Wednesday
  • September and October: 9:00-11:00 PM, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays
  • November and December, 7:30-9:30 PM, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays

Not Open On These Major Holidays: Jul 4, Dec 24, Dec 25, Dec 31, Jan 1

Please keep in mind that the sky needs to be mostly clear for observing to take place. However, this is not the only restriction. Other factors including subzero temperatures or high humidity could prompt the observer to cancel or delay observing. As these conditions are frequently unpredictable, the host will decide when to close the observatory based on weather and interest.

Related Links

Washburn Observatory on Twitter

Looks like a go tonight! We start at 9 pm! Finish at 11 pm. Saturn is up, and the rings should be visible in the telescope.
7:14 PM May 16
Looking like it'll be clear tonight for observing! We start at 9. We'll confirm we're open closer to 9.
3:51 PM May 16
The Washburn telescope got refurbished this week for the first time in 130 years! Check it out: http://t.co/q9aZ26qA
10:49 AM May 11
UW-Madison Astronomy Home