The Friday night observation tours at the Dearborn Observatory are open to the public, and there are two hours open for visiting:

9:00 to 10:00pm: * Reservation hour only.
Your group will have a tour of the Observatory, and be able to look through the telescope for the full hour.

10:00 to 11:00pm: Walk-ins are welcome.
We usually try to allow everyone at least one opportunity to look through the telescope, but space is limited in the dome; therefore, there is no guarantee that everyone will be able to look through the telescope if we are very crowded.

There is no fee for the Friday night observation tours; however, if you make a reservation for a group of 10 or more, we do require a refundable deposit which will be returned to you on the night of your visit.

* If you would like to make a reservation and want to learn more about the Observatory, or need information about a private group viewing, please call the Dearborn Observatory at 847-491-7650.

Please be advised that the dome does not have heat or air-conditioning, so please dress appropriately. Friday night tours are held “rain or shine.” Visitors will receive a tour of the Observatory and be able to look through the telescope, weather permitting. Tours are usually hosted by Ph.D. students and/or Undergraduate students majoring in Physics and Astronomy. Visitors are encouraged to ask questions about Astronomy.

Unfortunately, the Dearborn Observatory is NOT ADA-accessible. Several staircases must be climbed in order to reach the telescope.