Southern Illinois Star Party 2026

FREE Public astronomy observation and science activities at the SIU Carbondale University Farms Astronomy Observation Area
Saturday,  September 19, 2026
6pm to 11pm CDT

Join SIU Carbondale, and the Astronomical Association of Southern Illinois for a free night of guided telescope observations as well as family friendly astronomy and science activities.  Enjoy an evening under the stars at the SIU University Farms Astronomy Observation Area.  The site is 2 miles west of SIU’s main campus in a semi-dark area that offers good views of the night sky.

Several night time and solar telescopes operated by amateur astronomers and SIU School of Physics and Applied Physics faculty, staff, and students will be available to the public this evening.  Visitors will be able to see the Sun, Moon, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter and other celestial objects.

Visitors are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets as well as photography or telescope equipment.  Free shuttles will run from SIU Parking lot #63 at the corner of Oakland and Chautauqua streets throughout the evening. Parking at the SIU Farms observation site is very limited and available by permit only.

For disability accommodations call 618-453-5738. Disabled visitors or those bringing telescope equipment that would be difficult to transport by shuttle may contact events@siu.edu or call SIU Events and Outreach at 618-453-7751 for a free onsite parking permit.

Free Admission & Family Friendly

Guided Telescope Observations

A variety of small and large telescopes will be setup for public viewing.

Astronomy & Science Activities

Learn about the Sun, our night sky, telescopes, astrophotography and current NASA sponsored research at SIU.  Presentations on the night sky will take place at the top of every hour after sunset. Additional presentations and videos TBA. 

 Free Parking & Shuttle Service

Located at SIU campus lot #63 on the corner of Chautauqua and Oakland streets in Carbondale.  Shuttle pickup every 15 minutes. In addition, a limited number of onsite parking permits will be available.

Concessions Available 

For special accommodations and more information contact SIU Events and Outreach at 618-536-7751 or email events@siu.edu.

For more information, see: https://eclipse.siu.edu/southern-illinois-star-party/