Branched Oak Observatory Ends Year with BOO at the BOO, Wine Event, and Star Party

Branched Oak Observatory (branchedoakobservatory.com), an astronomical observing site near the Branched Oak Lake Recreation area, wrapped up the year with three exciting events. On October 29, the Observatory held BOO at the BOO, a kid-friendly “sorta-spooky” Halloween event for the entire family. There was a Trick-or-Treat Costume Parade throughout the grounds. Each station was decorated and manned by costumed observatory staff. After the parade, guests enjoyed meeting at the 30′ Prairie Astronomy Club Launch Pad for more treats, spiced cider, music, and astronomical views through a telescope. A special thank you goes to Sam’s Club and Bob Poe Manufacturing for sponsoring.

In addition, on November 20, the Observatory partnered with James Arthur Vineyards for a Wine & Stargazing event. It was a wonderful opportunity to sip on Nebraska wine, nibble on appetizers, and take in the radiant night sky.
Lastly, the Observatory ended the observing season with a final Star Party! Astronomy enthusiasts gathered over Thanksgiving weekend to see planet Jupiter, the Andromeda Galaxy, The Great Orion Nebula, The Seven Sisters Star Cluster, and much more.

Once or twice a month, the Branched Oak Observatory is open to the general public and students of astronomy. With the help of local astronomers and amazing volunteers, they set-up a variety of telescopes and explored the night sky. The Observatory is looking forward to welcoming new nighttime explorers in 2022! To learn more about this beautiful “sky park” and next year’s events, visit branchedoakobservatory.com or follow the Facebook page (@branchedoakobservatory).