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Public Events

The Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA) hosts a variety of free programs for the public. Among these events are Observatory Nights, sponsored by the Harvard College Observatory, which feature a nontechnical lecture and telescopic observing from the observatory roof, if the weather permits. These lectures are intended for high-school age and older audiences but children are also welcome.  Admission is free; however, tickets are limited and seating is on a first-come basis.  These events are held in Phillips Auditorium, 60 Garden St., Cambridge, about one mile west of Harvard Square. Parking lots marked for Observatory staff are open to the public on event nights. Parking is free.

For more information, including accessibility, or to sign up for our events mailing list, please email obsvnight@cfa.harvard.edu.

Cambridge Explores the Universe

October 25, 2025  12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Become an astronomer for a day! Visit the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian on Observatory Hill, 60 Garden Street Cambridge, MA 02138, and dive into our latest discoveries from across the Universe - explore the Sun, exoplanets, black holes, and so much more!

Visitors to this family-friendly open house can enjoy hands-on exploration stations, behind the scenes tours, and opportunities to ask our scientists all of your burning questions about space.

Click here for free tickets and detailed information!

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We are currently experiencing technical difficulties with our mailing list. If you signed up but did not receive a notification about ticket availability, we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. If tickets have reached maximum capacity, we encourage you to join the waitlist, and we will do our best to secure you a ticket closer to the date.