Join Fairmount Park Conservancy and astronomer/educator Buddy Muhler for a one-mile guided moonwalk and telescope observation. 

We’ll start by using the moonlight to guide us on a short hike along the Lemon Hill Rim Trail – a wooded trail that runs high above Kelly Drive and offers views of the Schuylkill River below. Learn a little about the history of the area as well as the nocturnal animals that call the forest home.

*June, July, and September Special!* In June, July, and September, we will be joined by the Academy of Natural Sciences. A naturalist from the museum’s education team will lead the hike portion of the event, sharing their expertise on the flora, fauna, and geology of the area.

Next, we’ll turn our attention to the sky with a guided moon and planet/star observation, depending on the month. Novice and experienced astronomers alike will be given insights and tips by experienced instructor Buddy Muhler. Each attendee will have the chance to travel close up to the moon’s surface by looking through Buddy’s high-powered telescope! Buddy will discuss the lunar cycles and point out interesting visible surface features such as dark gray mares (seas) and white reflective highlands. We’ll gaze at planets or stars and discuss other astronomical wonders of the night sky.

If you’re a lunar lunatic, this is an evening not to miss!

INSTRUCTOR BIO: Buddy Muhler is a passionate astronomer and science educator. He has over 15 years of experience operating telescopes and educating the public on astronomy, first at The Franklin Institute and now in his current position with The Academy of Natural Sciences.

TICKET PRICE: $15

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

• This hike is roughly one mile in length over a combination of open parkland and hilly trails (moderate exertion).
• Please note, new park gates have been installed in the Lemon Hill area. We recommend parking your car OUTSIDE of these gates across from the Lemon Hill Playground on Sedgley Drive. From there, you can walk up the hill in the direction of Lemon Hill Mansion. You will see a wooden gazebo in the field – that’s where we’ll meet.
• Appropriate for adults and families with children ages six and up. Minors must be registered and accompanied by an adult.
• Please dress according to weather conditions and wear good hiking shoes (boots/sneakers). Long pants are recommended for hiking on the narrow trails.
• Please bring your own water and snacks (drinking water is not available in the park).
• There is a bathroom nearby (porta-potty).
• We will leave a few minutes after the scheduled start time. Please arrive at the departure location at least five minutes early. We cannot guarantee that latecomers can join after the group has departed.
• Attendees are encouraged to bring their own telescopes or high-powered binoculars.
• We will use moonlight whenever possible, but for portions of the trail, we recommend bringing a flashlight, headlamp, or fully charged smartphone.
• Feel free to bring blankets/lawn chairs for the telescope observation portion.

PARKING/GETTING THERE: New park gates have been installed in the Lemon Hill area. Since our event goes later, we recommend parking your car OUTSIDE of these gates, across from the Lemon Hill Playground on Sedgley Drive. From there, you can walk up the hill in the direction of Lemon Hill Mansion. You will see a wooden gazebo in the field – that’s where we’ll meet. As always, never leave valuables in your car! If traveling by public transit, the nearest stops are at 31st and Girard Ave and Art Museum Drive – both are a half-mile walk from the start. The nearest Indego bike station is at 31st and Girard – also a half-mile from the start.

QUESTIONS? Please reach out to programs@myphillypark.org

Enjoy our programs? Play it forward for Philly parks! Fairmount Park Conservancy’s Fair Play Campaign is creating healthy park infrastructure, expanding people-centered programs, and preparing our organization for the future. Learn more and get involved at fairplayphilly.org