Branched Oak Observatory will host its 12th annual StarBQ Sunday, Oct. 11, combining telescope viewing, barbecue, live music and hands-on science activities. The event runs from 5 to 11 p.m. at the observatory, 14300 NW 98th St., near Raymond.
Matt Anderson, the observatory’s co-founder and executive director, told KLIN News that darker skies outside Lincoln give visitors a different experience from viewing the stars in the city. Weather permitting, astronomers will help guests observe Saturn, galaxies and other celestial objects using a variety of optical and digital telescopes.
Anderson said first-time visitors often look through an eyepiece, glance back at the sky and question what they have just seen. “They just say, ‘Wow,’ or, ‘Is that real?’” he said. Viewing distant objects also offers a glimpse into the past because their light takes years to reach Earth. “You are looking at light that can be millions or tens of millions of years old,” Anderson said. “You’re looking at light that may have been older than the dinosaurs themselves.”
Visitors arriving before sunset can participate in safe solar viewing through specially equipped telescopes. Children can also build take-home STEM projects that teach basic electricity, while the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Physics Club will bring experiments, including a human gyroscope.
Granny Gwen’s food truck will serve barbecue and other food, and the Last Minute Band will provide live music. Guests can also explore the observatory’s Moon Map and participate in yard games. Raffle prizes include a SeeStar S50 digital telescope. The event will also recognize current and former military members with free entries into separate drawings for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and Space Force, with one winner from each branch receiving Vortex binoculars.
Anderson encouraged visitors to bring a sweatshirt or light jacket as temperatures cool after dark. Lawn chairs are also recommended because seating can fill up during larger events. Guests are welcome to bring their own telescopes or binoculars, and staff will be available to help them use the equipment.
Admission is $10 for adults, and children under 5 are admitted free. According to the event announcement, admission becomes free for everyone after 8:30 p.m. More information is available on the Branched Oak Observatory website.
