Please note that due to summer 2024 Van Allen Hall roof renovations, the Van Allen Observatory will be closed for the vast majority of summer 2024. Unless otherwise stated, Public Observing Nights in summer 2024 will be held at the picnic area southeast of Van Allen Hall. Please contact Caroline Roberts at 319-467-1481 for any questions about the current availability of the Van Allen Observatory.

Public Observing Nights at the VAO are held 12 times a year, usually 8-10PM two Fridays in March, April, June, July, September, and October (9-11PM June and July), though this can vary. Specifically, on the dates above, please join the University of Iowa Physics & Astronomy Department as we use the VAO and small telescopes to tour the night sky. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact Caroline Roberts in advance at 319-467-1481.

Emeritus Professor Robert Mutel tours guests through the observatory.