Oct. 23, 2026
Friday / 4:00 PM
Oct. 23, 2026
Friday / 6:00 PM
The Observatory offers programs exploring the history of astronomy and the history of the University of Michigan. We’re open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Admission is always free!
Check our calendar for programs and events!
Learn more about this newly reimagined, one-of-a-kind place, where the spirit of science and discovery link the past and present.
The Detroit Observatory on Facebook
Follow Us
When the Detroit Observatory was built in 1854, it was considered far from U-M’s main campus, which was centered largely around what we now know as the Diag. As the Michigan Daily later described it, “... the Observatory stands in solitary dignity on a high stretch of land overlooking Ann Arbor and the Huron river valley.”
This 1911 photo offers a glimpse of the area before the main hospital and nearby residence halls were built—and before this quiet corner became part of today’s bustling campus.
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
After Confederate troops attacked Fort Sumter, President Lincoln called for volunteers to fight for the Union. Michigan answered the call—its soldiers were the first from the “west” to arrive in Washington, D.C., and Michigan regiments would engage in nearly every major battle of the Civil War, from Vicksburg to Gettysburg.
Join us for a free talk at the Observatory to learn more about this fascinating history on Thursday, October 15, at 6 pm! This talk is presented in conjunction with our new exhibit, “‘Fill the Ranks’: The Civil War and the University of Michigan.” Anyone is welcome to sign up to attend!
The Observatory will be open 12-7:30 pm on Thursday, so come early to explore the exhibit before the program!
Register here (in-person or virtual): lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/czmvvn9/lp/c01c7429-8cb3-49e6-b17d-7c6b38e3eb48
The Making Michigan series is co-sponsored by the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan. Additional support from the U-M U.S. at 250 initiative.
4 CommentsComment on Facebook
Searching for Saturday plans? Look no further—we’re now open every Saturday from 12-5pm! Visit the Observatory to learn about U-M’s astronomical heritage, explore our exhibit “‘Fill the Ranks’: The Civil War and the University of Michigan,” and (weather permitting) safely observe the sun through our solar telescope. ☀️🔭
Once a month, we’re open late on Saturday to explore the night sky using historic and modern telescopes. Check our calendar for our extended Saturdays: detroitobservatory.umich.edu/visit/#tribe-calendar
🌟 Frankel Detroit Observatory Hours:
Thursdays: 12 PM – 5 PM
Fridays: 12 PM – 11 PM
Saturdays: 12 PM – 5 PM (select Saturdays 12 PM – 11 PM)
4 CommentsComment on Facebook
