Stargazing in Maryland 2023-2024

Located on the East Coast of the USA, Maryland can satisfy any stargazing fan. It prides itself on having ten planetariums, including the Space Telescope Science Institute and the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, the James Webb Space Telescope, and the operations center for the Hubble Space Telescope. Check out this article if you are interested in learning more about Maryland's best and easy-to-get stargazing locations.

One of the most popular spots for stargazing is Bear Branch Recreation Park in Westminster. It has a 40-seat planetarium with three telescopes to make your stargazing experience unforgettable. Another popular place is Anne Arundel Community College in Arnold. The astronomy department at the college welcomes guests of all ages to dive deeper into the night sky magic and provides the necessary equipment to watch the stars. It's open to the public from August till February.

In Annapolis, St. John's College Observatory and Planetarium also hold regular informal stargazing events. You can check the schedule on their official website in the External Resources below. Howard B. Owens Science Center offers its visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy the night sky and learn more about stargazing. It hosts engaging events, such as Skywatchers of Africa, Family Science Nights, and Night of the Fireflies. The admission fee is $5 for adults and $3 for teachers, seniors, and students.

Remember that the best time for stargazing is when the moon is in a crescent or gibbous phase. The best season for enjoying the night sky in Maryland is winter. Stargazing is a hobby that doesn't require a lot of equipment to enjoy it. Sometimes, all you need is a blanket, a vehicle, and a spot far away from city lights.