Drake Municipal Observatory Fall Lecture Series Opens September 19

Eight lectures planned through November, additional winter programming to be added

The Drake Municipal Observatory is proud to announce a compelling new lineup of programming for the fall with additional new winter programming to be added for the first time—creating more opportunities for the Des Moines community to explore the cosmos.

The fall schedule features a thought-provoking lineup of lectures, including topics like “Extraterrestrials: Where Are They?” and “Are We Inside a Gigantic Black Hole?” Each lecture begins with an astronomy lesson, followed by stargazing with expert guidance from Drake University faculty.

All fall lectures begin at 8 p.m. at 4898 Observatory Road in Des Moines.

  • September 19: The Sky (Fall & Winter)
  • September 26: Drake Municipal Observatory: A Century of Public Astronomy
  • October 3: The Herschels: A Remarkable Family
  • October 10: Are We Inside a Gigantic Black Hole?
  • October 17: The Hubble Tension: Why is Hubble So Tense?
  • October 24: The History of Spectroscopy: Guest Speaker Dr. Robinson Yost
  • October 31: Open Topic Night
  • November 7: Extraterrestrials: Where Are They?

Drake University is also planning to add winter programming in January and February. Dates and topics will be announced in the near future. Check drake.edu/observatory or follow us on Facebook for updates.

About Drake Municipal Observatory

Operated jointly by Drake University and the City of Des Moines, the Drake Municipal Observatory has been in operation for more than 100 years and is dedicated to the legacy of astronomer and Drake University President from 1923-1941, Dr. Daniel Walter Morehouse. With its historic Grecian architecture and prime location on the highest elevation in Des Moines, it continues to be a vital resource for astronomical discovery and community engagement.