Join Fairmount Park Conservancy and astronomer/educator Buddy Muhler for a 1.5-mile guided moonwalk and telescope observation in West Fairmount Park. 

We’ll start by using the moonlight to guide us on a short hike along parts of the historic Trolley Trail and Belmont Plateau Cross Country Course. Learn a little about the history of the area as well as the nocturnal animals that call the forest home.

Next, we’ll turn our attention to the sky with a guided moon and planet observation. 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:

• We will meet at the lower Belmont Plateau lot, located at the intersection of Belmont Mansion Drive and Army Road (linked here).
• This hike is roughly 1.5 miles in length over a combination of open parkland and hilly trails (moderate exertion).
• This event is 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).
• Unfortunately, there are no nearby bathrooms so please plan accordingly.
• 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 welcome 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: We will meet at the lower Belmont Plateau lot, located at the intersection of Belmont Mansion Drive and Army Road (linked here). As always, never leave valuables in your car! If traveling by public transit, the nearest stop is at Belmont Ave and Belmont Mansion/Fairmount Park Drive – a half-mile walk from the start. The closest Indego bike station is at Parkside and Belmont Ave – also a half-mile walk 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