Jackson College, Ella Sharp Museum and Dahlem Center Invite Community to ‘A Stellar Day in Jackson’

Three attractions, endless wonder! Explore the wonders of the universe right in your own community during A Stellar Day in Jackson, a free celebration of astronomy taking place Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026, from noon to 5 p.m., with special nighttime observing at the Jackson College Astronomical Observatory from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Jackson College, Ella Sharp Museum and the Dahlem Center are partnering to offer an afternoon of hands-on activities, educational experiences and celestial exploration for visitors of all ages.

Guests are encouraged to visit all three participating locations. Each participant will receive a passport to have stamped at each site. Those who collect stamps from all three locations will be entered into a drawing to win a print of M31, the Andromeda Galaxy, captured by the Jackson College Astronomical Observatory.

Jackson College Astronomical Observatory (2111 Emmons Road, Jackson, MI 49201)

All Jackson College activities will take place at the Astronomical Observatory and include:

• Solar observing from noon to 4 p.m.
• Observatory tours every 30 minutes at 12:30, 1, 1:30, 2, 2:30, 3 and 3:30 p.m.

The excitement continues after dark with special evening observations:

• 9-11 p.m.: Observe Venus at elongation along with other celestial objects.
• 11 p.m.-2 a.m.: Experience the Perseid meteor shower under dark skies.

Ella Sharp Museum (3225 4^th St., Jackson, MI 49203)

• Planetarium shows at noon, 3, 4 and 5 p.m.
• A scale model of the Earth-Moon system along Farm Lane from noon to 5 p.m.

Dahlem Center (7117 S. Jackson Road, Jackson, MI 49201)

From noon to 5 p.m., families can participate in:

• A Scaled Solar System Walk
• Sun print activities
• A solar energy scavenger hunt

A Stellar Day in Jackson offers a unique opportunity for the community to experience astronomy through interactive exhibits, telescope viewing, educational activities and partnerships among three of Jackson’s leading educational and cultural organizations.

The event is free and open to the public.

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