Build Your Own Telescope Class

Guided by our experienced volunteers, participants will assemble their very own Galileoscope, a simple yet powerful optical tool inspired by Galileo’s original design.

We’ll take a brief look at how lenses gather and focus light, explore what makes different types of telescopes unique, and walk you through building a fully functional refractor telescope. At the end of the session, we’ll put your new telescope to the test with an observing session under the beautifully dark skies just outside the observatory, focusing on the Moon and bright stars. Our volunteers will make sure you know how to get the most out of your instrument before you take it home to continue exploring the cosmos.

No prior experience is necessary, just curiosity and a love of the night sky. All materials and tools will be provided.