Adler Planetarium is bringing free stargazing and space science to Chicago libraries this fall

The Adler Planetarium’s iconic dome on the Lake Michigan shoreline has beckons Chicagoans to explore the cosmos, but this fall, the Adler's astronomy educators and volunteers will be bringing the universe out into the city. Through a partnership with the Chicago Public Library, the Adler is expanding its community outreach, making stargazing and high-level space science more accessible.

Scopes In The City is a free pop-up telescope program designed to break down barriers to astronomy education. By positioning telescopes outside neighborhood library branches and in public parks, Adler's team will offer residents a chance to look deep into the night sky. Turn an ordinary evening into something magical as you peer through high-powered telescopes to catch a glimpse of the cosmos. Marvel at the craters of the Moon, the swirling bands of Jupiter, the golden rings of Saturn or even safe, filtered views of the sun. Upcoming observing sessions run from 6 to 8pm at local branches, including Portage-Cragin, the Obama branch and Bucktown-Wicker Park.

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Alongside neighborhood stargazing, Adler experts are lending their scientific insight to One Book, One Chicago through an engaging autumn lecture series. Designed to ignite curiosity about the cutting edge of astrophysics, these free public talks will feature leading scientists discussing everything from high-resolution deep space imagery to black hole collisions.

By pairing telescope viewings with expert-led neighborhood talks, the Adler Planetarium and CPL are taking the wonders of the universe out into the streets. Lean into your blooming scientific curiosity or just come out to get a different view of the night sky. Either way, you'll expand your universe.

'Scopes in the City:

• October 19, 6–8pm at Portage-Cragin branch
• November 2, 6–8pm at Obama branch
• November 16, 6–8pm at Bucktown-Wicker Park branch

One Book, One Chicago:

• October 9, 12pm at Harold Washington Library Center: Exploring the Universe with the James Webb Telescope with Astrophysicist Mike Zevin
• October 15, 6pm at Sulzer Regional: Listening to the Universe with Gravitational Waves with Astrophysicist Shanika Galaudage
• October 21, 6pm at West Lawn: Armchair Tour of the Solar System with Senior Director of Public Programs Michelle Nichols