Free Family Astronomy Event at Dickson Mounds August 10 and 11

ISM Location: Dickson Mounds

For Immediate Release:

LEWISTOWN, Ill. – The Illinois State Museum-Dickson Mounds is hosting a free Family Astronomy Event and Perseid meteor shower viewing on August 10 beginning at 10:00 p.m. through the night until August 11 at 5:00 a.m.  Families may enjoy learning about the night sky from Astronomer Kevin Manning’s presentation “Astronomy for Everyone.” Astronomer, author, and national speaker Kevin Manning, a former consultant to NASA, will deliver an intriguing and thought-provoking program of exploration into the universe.  His program will begin at 10:15 p.m. in the Dickson Mounds Museum auditorium.  With Kevin’s guidance, participants will then be able to view the night sky (clear sky permitting) from the Museum’s observation deck, snack bar area porch, or the Museum’s grounds. 

In addition, Jesse Hoover of the Peoria Astronomical Society will share information on meteor showers, meteorites, and other objects in the night sky and have a telescope to enhance viewing opportunities.  The PAS is a non-profit organization of amateur astronomers from Peoria, Illinois and surrounding communities. 

Doors will open at 10:00 p.m. on August 10th and close at 5:00 a.m. August 11.  The public is welcome to come and go anytime during these hours and view the night sky from the Museum’s observation deck. Participants may also enjoy hands-on activities and crafts to take home. 

Participants should dress appropriately for the outdoors and bring a lawn/camping chair or blanket and small flash light.  Light refreshments will be available.  This event is co-sponsored by Dickson Mounds and the Astoria Public Library. 

Black Sheep Flower Farm, located across the road from the Museum, is offering tent camping for $20 per family/tent, 6-10:00 p.m.  Pitch your tent and enjoy the camp fire. Bring hot dogs, marshmallows and all your wiener roast favorites. Bring your own cup for complimentary hot chocolate.

The Illinois State Museum-Dickson Mounds is located between Lewistown and Havana off Illinois Routes 78 and 97. The museum is open free to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day.

Tours and special programs are available for groups with reservations. For more information call 309-547-3721 or TTY 217-782-9175. Also visit us on Facebook at Illinois State Museum-Dickson Mounds or online at the Dickson Mounds link on the Illinois State Museum website at www.illinoisstatemuseum.org.

Contact Person: Christa Christensen

Contact Email: christa.christensen@illinois.gov

Contact Phone: (309) 547-3721

Release File (pdf): dicksonmounds-astronomy-aug2019final.pdf

Release File (doc): dicksonmounds-astronomy-aug2019final.docx