The Mile High Astronomy Tour offers stargazers an immersive celestial experience just south of Denver. Led by a professional astronomer, this 2-hour tour departs from City Park and provides an intimate setting to explore the night sky. Participants can expect guided telescope viewing of distant galaxies, nebulae, and planets, complemented by engaging discussions on the wonders of the cosmos. With limited group sizes, the tour ensures a personalized journey for both novice and experienced astronomy enthusiasts alike. Those seeking to unravel the mysteries of the universe won’t want to miss this captivating opportunity.
Key Points
- The Mile High Astronomy Tour is a 2-hour guided stargazing experience held south of Denver, starting and ending at City Park’s Picnic Site 1.
- The tour is led by a professional astronomer and includes telescope viewing of celestial objects such as galaxies, nebulae, and planets.
- The tour is limited to 7 participants, ensuring a small-group and interactive experience, and includes transportation to and from the park.
- Participants can engage in discussions, ask questions, and learn about astronomy, constellations, and cosmic mysteries during the tour.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible and provides red light flashlights to preserve night vision, with the recommendation to dress warmly for the evening temperatures.
Tour Overview
The Mile High Astronomy Tour takes stargazers south of Denver for a 2-hour exploration of the night sky.
This tour is likely to sell out, so travelers should reserve their spot now for just $45 per person. Though payment isn’t required upfront, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The small-group tour, limited to 7 participants, starts and ends at City Park’s Picnic Site 1. Guests will enjoy a guided tour with scenic views, a twilight telescope viewing with a professional astronomer, and the chance to learn about celestial objects and use the telescopes.
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Itinerary Details
Starting at City Park’s Picnic Site 1 in Denver, the tour takes guests on a guided journey with scenic views along the way.
The small group is limited to 7 participants and is wheelchair accessible.
The tour features:
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A visit to the main stop at City Park, Picnic Site 1
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A live tour guide who provides commentary in English
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Transportation to and from the park
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The opportunity to use telescopes and ask questions under the guidance of a professional astronomer.
Astronomy Experience
Guests on the Mile High Astronomy Tour can look forward to an immersive experience learning about astronomy, constellations, and the mysteries of the universe.
Led by a professional astronomer, the tour includes a twilight telescope viewing session. Attendees will observe galaxies, clusters, nebulae, planets, and stars through large, powerful telescopes.
The guide will provide insights into these celestial objects and offer hands-on instruction on using the telescopes. Participants can ask questions and engage in discussions about the cosmos.
This interactive astronomy experience promises to enlighten and inspire stargazers of all levels.
Included Features
As part of the Mile High Astronomy Tour, participants can expect a range of included features to enhance their celestial experience.
The tour provides:
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A professional astronomer guide to lead the group and share their expertise.
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Telescope viewing and an informative astronomy talk to deepen understanding of the cosmos.
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Insights into the nature and significance of galaxies, clusters, nebulae, planets, and stars observed through the large telescopes.
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Instruction on the proper use of the telescopes, ensuring participants can maximize their viewing experience.
Plus, red light flashlights are provided, and transportation to and from the park is included.
More Great Tours NearbyPreparation and Recommendations
To fully enjoy the Mile High Astronomy Tour, attendees should bring warm clothing for after sunset as temperatures can drop significantly. While the tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year, young children who might fall asleep during the late-night excursion may also find it challenging. To ensure a comfortable and engaging experience, consider the following recommendations:
| Recommendation | Description |
| — | — |
| Warm Clothing | Bring layers to stay cozy after sunset |
| Suitable for Children | Not recommended for young children who may fall asleep |
| Red Light Flashlights | Provided to preserve night vision |
| Transportation | Included to and from the park |
Scenic Views En Route
The tour guides lead participants through City Park, showcasing the serene natural beauty along the way.
The route features:
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Picturesque lakes and ponds teeming with wildlife
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Verdant groves of towering trees casting cool shadows
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Sweeping views of the Rocky Mountain foothills in the distance
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Meandering paths winding through lush, well-manicured gardens
These scenic sights provide a relaxing prelude to the main event – the captivating astronomical observations through powerful telescopes under the darkening twilight sky.
Telescope Viewing and Astronomy Talk
After the scenic walk through City Park, participants eagerly gather around the professional astronomer guide.
Peering through the high-powered telescopes, they marvel at the detailed views of galaxies, nebulae, and planets. The astronomer shares fascinating insights, explaining the nature of celestial objects and their place in the universe.
Participants have the opportunity to ask questions and even use the telescopes themselves, gaining hands-on experience under the guidance of the expert.
As the twilight deepens, the starry sky comes alive, offering a breathtaking display of the wonders of the cosmos.
Celestial Objects Observed
As the telescopes trained their lenses on the night sky, participants were treated to captivating glimpses of the cosmos.
Through the large apertures, they observed:
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Sprawling galaxies, their spiral arms and luminous cores visible.
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Brilliant star clusters, their densely packed stars twinkling like celestial diamonds.
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Swirling nebulae, their vibrant hues of red, green, and blue painting the darkness.
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Ringed planets, their distinct bands and moons revealed in stunning detail.
The celestial wonders unfolding before their eyes sparked wonder and ignited their imaginations, leaving them in awe of the universe’s boundless beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Time Does the Tour Start and End?
The tour starts at an unspecified time and lasts 2 hours. It’s likely to sell out, so customers should reserve their spot soon. The tour ends when the 2-hour duration is complete.
Can I Bring My Own Telescope or Binoculars?
The tour allows participants to bring their own telescopes or binoculars. However, the tour guide will provide large telescopes for viewing celestial objects, and instruction on their use is included as part of the experience.
Is There Any Food or Drink Provided During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t include any food or drink. Guests are responsible for bringing their own refreshments if desired. The focus of the experience is on stargazing and astronomy education with the provided telescopes and astronomer guide.
Is the Tour Suitable for Someone With Mobility Issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for those with mobility issues. The small group size and guided nature of the experience ensure personalized attention and support for participants with special needs.
Will We Be Able to See the International Space Station?
The tour likely won’t provide views of the International Space Station, as it focuses on observing celestial objects like galaxies, clusters, and planets through large telescopes. The tour’s itinerary and astronomy experiences are centered around terrestrial stargazing rather than viewing specific space objects.
The Sum Up
The Mile High Astronomy Tour offers a captivating stargazing experience just south of Denver. With a small group size, expert guidance, and telescope viewing, it’s an immersive exploration of the night sky. Warm clothing is recommended as temperatures drop, but the chance to observe galaxies, nebulae, and planets makes for an unforgettable celestial adventure.
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