From common astronomical occurrences to rare cosmic phenomena, join us to learn about our solar system and beyond.
Join SCI staff and volunteers to observe celestial objects, colorful double stars and star clusters, meteor showers and more through high-powered telescopes! Engage with stargazing guides to investigate the science of our solar system and beyond. Each event has a unique focus!
Star Parties
Each SCI Star Party is held at a different location around the Des Moines Metro. Tickets and registration are not required to take part in the Star Party activities. See below for the dates, times and locations for this year's schedule.
- April 24 from 8-10 PM: Theme - Opening Night @SCI
- May 22 from 9-11 PM: Theme - Evening Planets @SCI
- June 26 from 9-11 PM: Theme - Summer Solstice @Drake Observatory
- July 24 from 9-11 PM: Theme - Midsummer Moon @TBD
- August TBD from 9-11 PM: Theme - The Perseids @TBD
- September 19 from 8-10 PM: Theme - Harvest Moon @Drake Observatory
- October 23 from 8-10 PM: Theme - Autumn Skies @Drake Observatory
Solar Parties
SCI Solar Parties offer visitors a safe, up‑close look at our nearest star! Join SCI staff and volunteers on the first and third Saturdays of each month during the Downtown Des Moines Farmers Market as we explore the Sun using specially filtered solar telescopes. Guests can observe features like sunspots, granulation, prominences, and other dynamic solar activity, all while learning how different filters reveal different layers and wavelengths of the Sun. These free, drop‑in events take place from 9–11 AM on the north side of the Science Center near the main entrance. No tickets or registration are required.
- May 2
- May 16
- June 6
- June 20
- July 4
- July 18
- August 1
- August 15
- September 5
- September 19
- October 3
- October 17
PLEASE NOTE: Solar & Star Parties are weather dependent and are subject to cancellation. Check the SCI website and Facebook for updates on the event.
Star Parties are offered through a partnership with Des Moines Parks & Recreation. If you are interested in volunteering for a Star or Solar party, please contact volunteer@sciowa.org.