The George Observatory Offers Weekday Astronomy Classes
When the sky is clear, students can view live images of the Sun through the Observatory's solar telescope. Teachers are welcome to bring a blank VHS videotape to record the Sun's activity for their lessons. Each class includes a tour of the Research Dome to see the giant Gueymard telescope.
Astronomy Classes
| When: | By reservation. Monday-Friday, 9 am - 3 pm |
| Max: | 40 students |
| Ages: | Grades K-12, tailored to grade level |
| Length: | One Hour |
| Fee: | $160.00 per class |
Classes begin with 45 minutes of hands-on activities covering such topics as optics, telescopes, solar system, deep space and the Sun. The remainder of the hour is used to tour the various domes and telescopes, including the research dome housing the 36" Gueymard telescope and the solar dome. Weather permitting; the group will observe the sun in action! The exhibit area will be open with computer simulations of various astronomy topics as well. Bring lunch and enjoy a self-guided nature walk exploring the flora and fauna of nearby Creekfield Lake.
All Classes can be adapted to any grade level. Call for assistance in planning your field trip. The classes listed below meet specific TEKS science concepts for these grade levels.
Exploring the Night Sky (GDC) Grade 4 and 5
The original day class includes a visual presentation highlighting the night sky, as well as hands-on activities investigating telescopes, spectroscopes, and other tools used by astronomers.
Deep Space and Beyond: Your Visa to the Universe (GA1) Grade 8
Explore what is out there beyond our solar system!
The Colorful Night Sky (GA2) Grades 9 to 12
Learn about red giants, white dwarves, black holes and our yellow star! Life cycles of the stars.
What’s Up? (GA3)
All about what you see in the sky from your own backyard, including simple tools and useful Internet sites.
Our Neighborhood in Space: The Solar System (GA4) Grades K to 3
Learn all about our solar system, including the planets, sun, moons of the planets, comets, asteroids, and more.
NEW! Summer Telescope Tours
Great opportunity for daycares this summer - tTour the large telescope at the George Observatory!
Ages 6-12
$4 each / minimum $80
Schedule a Discovery Dome show and a Telescope Tour for discount of $6 each for both / minimum $140.
Observing for High School, College and/or Adult Education Astronomy/Physics Classes
Bring your class to the George Observatory in Brazos Bend State Park for a hands-on observing session through the 36 inch telescope and new 11 inch refractor here at the observatory. These observational classes are held on one Thursday evening per month, November-March, from 6:30 - 8:30 pm.
| Cost: | $200 for up to 30 students and teacher. |
Please call 281-242-3055 for more information and reservations.
