News & Events

The UMBC Observatory team offers various events that are open to the public and completely free. A listing of them is given below as linked from the myUMBC Group Page for the Observatory.

It is important to note that the telescope is located in a dome on top of the Physics Building on the UMBC campus.  Access to the dome involves climbing & descending two ladders, which may be a challenge to some visitors such as children and people with physical disabilities. Please refer to the Dome Access page to avoid disappointment. However, touring the dome is only a part of these events, and much learning and discussion is still available.

Show Upcoming

Apr
1

FOTO: Orbits

Location

Physics : 401

Date & Time

April 1, 2025, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Description

UMBC Observatory Telescope Operations Coordinator: Brayden Rosling will be presenting on Orbits. During the talk, Brayden will focus on: what causes orbits orbital eccentricity orbital...

Feb
28

FOTO: FITS with DS9

Location

Physics : 401

Date & Time

February 28, 2025, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Description

UMBC Observatory Engineering Team Coordinator Sam Silva will be presenting on the FITS files and basic use of DS9. During the talk, Sam will highlight: FITS File Structure Viewing FITS Header...

Feb
19

FOTO: Celestial Sphere

Location

Physics : 401

Date & Time

February 19, 2025, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Description

UMBC Observatory student worker Percy Yu will be presenting on the Celestial Sphere. During the talk, Percy will highlight: Explaining the celestial sphere and the different coordinate systems...