Loines Observatory
Discover the cosmos at Loines Observatory, where history meets the stars. Explore Nantucket's astronomical heritage and gaze through powerful telescop...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Prime stargazing season
Loines Observatory
Best Time
Prime stargazing season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the cosmos at Loines Observatory, where history meets the stars. Explore Nantucket's astronomical heritage and gaze through powerful telescopes.
"Great experience. The staff were wonderful. Learned quite a bit through their talks outside."
Check Open Night Schedule
Loines Observatory is typically open twice a week in summer. Confirm dates and times before your visit!
Dress in Layers
Nantucket nights can be cool. Bring extra layers and wear comfortable shoes for waiting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Antique Refractor Telescope
Main Observatory
View celestial wonders through the historic telescope used by Maria Mitchell herself. See craters on the Moon and distant planets.
Professional Grade Telescopes
Observatory Grounds
Gaze at Jupiter, Saturn, and globular clusters through powerful telescopes, guided by knowledgeable staff and students.
Guided Stargazing & Talks
Observatory Grounds
Learn about constellations, celestial bodies, and the history of astronomy from passionate experts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Stargazing
Dress for the Occasion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Open Night Schedule
Loines Observatory is typically open twice a week in summer. Confirm dates and times before your visit!
Dress in Layers
Nantucket nights can be cool. Bring extra layers and wear comfortable shoes for waiting.
Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the grounds after dark, especially if walking back to town.
Arrive Early for Talks
Get a good spot for historical talks and constellation tours before the telescope viewing begins.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Open Night Schedule
Loines Observatory is typically open twice a week in summer. Confirm dates and times before your visit!
Dress in Layers
Nantucket nights can be cool. Bring extra layers and wear comfortable shoes for waiting.
Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the grounds after dark, especially if walking back to town.
Arrive Early for Talks
Get a good spot for historical talks and constellation tours before the telescope viewing begins.
Consider Uber/Taxi
If walking from town, an Uber or taxi can help avoid twisted ankles on historic sidewalks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Loines Observatory for its educational value and the unique opportunity to view celestial bodies through historic telescopes. While the staff is commended for their knowledge, some find the time at each telescope to be rushed due to lengthy explanations and visitor questions. Despite occasional cloud cover, the experience is generally considered well worth the modest entry fee.
"The amount of time left per attendee was less than 1 minute per telescope because the gentleman that was giving the tour took a bit too long to answer every single question and speak about what we were going to be looking at. And at the end we really only had about 20-25 minutes to walk in each observatory, and at the telescopes ( felt rushed). I think it's best to cut off the questions from visitors at some point. Even though it was cloudy, he didn't even turn the large microscope.on. it would have been nice to see it in action, even if we could not see anything."
Sherry Frantz
"Great experience. The staff were wonderful. Learned quite a bit through their talks outside. The waits were a bit long for the lines to view through the two telescopes. Dress to wait in the weather."
Tim Cashman
"Open night is great with the kids. Guided stargazing, historical talks, and three professional grade telescopes pointed at whatever is interesting in the sky that night. Great views of Jupiter, Saturn, and etc. There's a research station, as well, and scientists to answer questions."
Paul-Gabriel Wiener
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Loines Observatory is about a mile walk from downtown Nantucket. You can follow the historic sidewalks, but be aware they can be uneven. For a safer and quicker journey, consider taking an Uber or taxi, especially after dark.
While specific parking details aren't widely publicized, it's generally recommended to check with the Maria Mitchell Association for the most current parking information. Walking or using ride-sharing services is often preferred.
Loines Observatory's primary public access is during its scheduled 'open nights' for stargazing. Daytime visits might be limited to specific events or by appointment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the open house nights is typically around $10 per person, making it a very affordable experience.
Tickets are usually available for purchase on-site during open nights. It's always a good idea to check the Maria Mitchell Association's website for any updates on ticketing procedures.
Loines Observatory is generally open twice a week during the summer evenings for stargazing events. Specific hours vary, so checking their schedule is crucial.
Loines Observatory is a family-friendly destination, and open nights are great with kids. There are no specific age restrictions mentioned for general admission.
🎫 🔭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can expect to see planets like Jupiter (with its moons) and Saturn (with its rings), as well as deep-sky objects like globular clusters. The antique refractor telescope is often set up for Moon viewing.
Some visitors have noted that time at each telescope can feel rushed due to the number of questions and the duration of talks. Aiming to be near the front of the line can help maximize your viewing time.
Even on cloudy nights, the staff may offer talks about astronomy and the history of the observatory. However, viewing through the telescopes will be limited or impossible.
Information on accessibility is not widely available. It's recommended to contact the Maria Mitchell Association directly to inquire about specific accessibility features.
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of others and avoid using flash that could disrupt stargazing. Check for any specific photography guidelines on-site.
🎫 ⭐ Stargazing Tips
The summer months offer the best opportunities for stargazing. Visiting around the New Moon phase will provide the darkest skies for optimal viewing of celestial objects.
Nantucket can get chilly at night, so dressing in layers is highly recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must, as you'll be on your feet.
Yes, Loines Observatory offers guided stargazing, historical talks about Maria Mitchell, and fascinating facts about the galaxy.
Absolutely! The observatory often provides constellation tours, helping you identify patterns in the night sky.
The Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) is dedicated to science and astronomy education, operating Loines Observatory and preserving the legacy of Nantucket's first female astronomer.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to dress children in layers as the evenings can get cool. While the walk from town is possible, consider transportation options like Uber or a taxi for younger children to ensure a comfortable arrival and departure, especially after a night of stargazing.
🔭 Astronomy Enthusiasts
Engage with the knowledgeable staff and undergraduate students who are often on hand to answer in-depth questions about astronomy and the research conducted at the observatory. The historical context provided by the Maria Mitchell Association adds another layer of appreciation for the science being explored.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Maria Mitchell
The observatory itself houses historical instruments, including the antique refractor telescope that Maria Mitchell used. Visitors have the unique opportunity to look through this piece of history and connect with Nantucket's rich scientific heritage. The MMA also operates a retail shop within the Natural Science Museum, offering books and mementos for sky lovers.
Attending an open night at Loines Observatory is more than just stargazing; it's an immersion into astronomical history and a chance to support a vital educational institution. The knowledgeable staff and students are passionate about sharing their love for the cosmos, making it an enriching experience for all ages.
Navigating Your Observatory Visit
For the best viewing conditions, aim for a visit during the New Moon phase. This minimizes light pollution and allows for the darkest skies, making fainter celestial objects more visible. Evenings on Nantucket can be breezy, so dressing in layers is highly recommended. Comfortable shoes are also a must, as you'll likely be standing and waiting in line for the telescopes.
While walking from downtown Nantucket is feasible, the historic sidewalks can be uneven. Many visitors find it convenient to take an Uber or taxi, especially after dark, to avoid any potential hazards. Bringing a flashlight is also a practical tip for navigating the grounds safely.
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