Public Tours
Holcomb Observatory is open for public tours on May 31,
June 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 28 & 29. No
reservations are needed.
We will be closed on July 5
& 6.
Doors open at 8:45 PM
Planetarium show at 9:00 PM
Telescope Viewing at 10:00 PM to 10:45 PM (weather permitting; see ClearSky
Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium is open to the public most
Friday and Saturday evenings. The current dates of operation are
listed on right-hand side of this webpage. The current planetarium
program focuses on the exploration of the planet Jupiter. Following the Jupiter
portion of the program the dome of the planetarium comes alight
with a tour of the night time sky pointing out stars,
constellations, and planets (including Jupiter and its moons)
currently visible in our Hoosier skies. After the planetarium show
visitors will have an opportunity to view through Indiana's largest
telescope weather permitting
(check the ClearSky Clock below for
cloud forecast).
Objects that may be viewed include the planets, assorted stars
clusters, nebulae, and perhaps the Moon if visible.
Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for children, students and
seniors, and $7 for families of five or less. Viewing through the
telescope is always free, weather permitting. We do not
accept checks or credit cards so please pay in cash.
For patron information there are 3 sets of steps to the
telescope. Wheelchair accessibility is available in the Planetarium
and Lobby area only. No elevator is available to the telescope
viewing area.
Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium is located on the north end
of the Butler University campus and can be reached by heading west
on 46th Street from Meridian Street. Butler University Campus
Map (PDF)
ClearSky Clock