Jump to Section events About Directions Astronomy Club Contact discover the stars! The Jackson College Astronomical Observatory opens up a window to the universe, offering students and the community an incredible opportunity to explore the night sky. Whether you’re a student diving into astronomy, a space enthusiast, or just someone who loves to stargaze, this observatory provides a front-row seat to the cosmos. Events Viewing Nights VIEWING NIGHT STATUSWednesday, May 27: Closed due to Weather 🙁 Date: Wednesdays and Saturdays Time: 9 – 11 p.m. Location: Astronomical Observatory Students, employees and the community are invited to come and do some stargazing through our telescope! About the Observatory At Jackson College, the stars aren’t just overhead—they’re within reach. The observatory was born from a bold vision to ignite curiosity and bring science to life. With a state-of-the-art CDK700 telescope housed in a rotating, ADA-accessible dome, it offers breathtaking views of the cosmos and a hands-on gateway to discovery. Built in partnership with local innovator PlaneWave Instruments, the observatory is more than a place to stargaze—it’s a launchpad for learning. From college courses to public viewing nights and community events, it invites students and neighbors alike to explore, connect, and dream bigger. Directions The Astronomical Observatory is located on Jackson College’s Central Campus in Jackson, Michigan. Visitors can enter through either of the two main campus entrances—off Emmons Road or Browns Lake Road—and follow the directional signage to the observatory. Parking is available next to the facility for easy access. Address: 2111 Emmons Road, Jackson, MI 49201 view campus map join the astronomy club! Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just curious about the cosmos, the Jackson College Astronomy Club is your place to connect, explore, and learn. Members enjoy exclusive access to observatory events, telescope nights, and hands-on activities that bring the universe a little closer. interest form Astronomy Club Documents Upcoming Astronomy Club Events April 9, 2026 Telescope Design 6 – 7 p.m.Astronomical Observatory Design and build a $300 telescope and create a blueprint others can follow. April 10, 2026 (Canceled due to weather) Planetary Imaging SunsetAstronomical Observatory Capture stunning images of planets and share them with the community. April 16, 2026 (Canceled due to weather) Solar Imaging 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.Astronomical Observatory Take images of the Sun and track its activity. April 17, 2026 ( Canceled due to weather) Solar Imaging 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.Astronomical Observatory Take images of the Sun and track its activity. April 18, 2026 (Canceled due to weather) Solar Imaging 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.Astronomical Observatory Take images of the Sun and track its activity. April 23, 2026 Telescope Design 6 – 7 p.m.Astronomical Observatory Design and build a $300 telescope and create a blueprint others can follow. May 1, 2026 (Canceled Due to Weather) Planetary Imaging SunsetAstronomical Observatory Capture stunning images of planets and share them with the community. May 7, 2026 Telescope Design 6 – 7 p.m.Astronomical Observatory Design and build a $300 telescope and create a blueprint others can follow. May 14, 2026 Solar Imaging 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.Astronomical Observatory Take images of the Sun and track its activity. May 15, 2026 Solar Imaging 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.Astronomical Observatory Take images of the Sun and track its activity. May 16, 2026 (Canceled due to weather) Solar Imaging 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.Astronomical Observatory Take images of the Sun and track its activity. May 21, 2026 (Canceled due to logistics) Telescope Design 6 – 7 p.m.Astronomical Observatory Design and build a $300 telescope and create a blueprint others can follow. contact Marlow, Travis Astronomical Observatory Coordinator marlowtravisd@jccmi.edu 517.990.1486
