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Campus Observatory
Renovation of the Campus Observatory
Since 1976, UIS Star Parties have welcomed 50,000 – 100,000 people to the wonders of the universe. These events are one of the very few *free* science education programs for kids and families in Central Illinois. We need your support to sustain the program’s excellence.
Summer Star Parties
Summer Star Parties Events 2026
This is the page for Star Parties held off campus in the spring and summer with community partners. Events will be held at Lincoln Memorial Garden on April 25 and August 12. Events will be held at the Pittsfield City Lake Campground in Pittsfield, IL on August 8 and August 29.
Research
Research Opportunities for Students
Students who have an interest in astronomy are encouraged to take advanced course work in the math and the physical sciences and talk to Dr. John Martin about engaging in a research project. Generally students must demonstrate an academic strength in the physical sciences and a strong interest and commitment in order to participate in a research project at the Barber Research Observatory.
Star Parties
Star Parties
Star Parties are the flagship public outreach events of the UIS Observatory, serving the public affairs mission of the University of Illinois Springfield.
From here you can branch off to the three different types of Star Parties we host:
Accessible Star Parties
The University of Illinois at Springfield’s astronomy program developed the world’s first telescope designed for wheelchair access.
A description of our accessible telescope appears in the July 1998 issue of Sky & Telescope magazine.
Astronomy-Physics Thematic Activity
The Astronomy-Physics option provides courses and laboratory work in astronomy and physics, featuring an astronomical observatory with one eight-inch and one 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, an eight-inch Newtonian telescope, an eight-inch fixed focal point telescope for persons with disabilities, two spectrographs, a hydrogen-alpha filter, an objective prism, and two charge-coupled devices (CCD). A 20-inch telescope and a 16-inch telescope are installed under dark skies at a site remote from the campus.
About Astronomy – Physics
Astronomy, the science of the stars, planets, galaxies, and black holes, fascinates people of all ages. It is the oldest science, yet it is also the most intriguing because the study of astronomy will help to answer the most important questions human beings can ask:
Testimonials
Student Testimonials
Do you wonder what other students think about the Astronomy Program?
Here are some students’ opinions of Prof John Martin, who teaches all of the Astronomy and Physics courses at UIS:
“I am convinced all of humanity is born with more gifts than we know. Most are born geniuses and just get de-geniused rapidly.”
Astronomy-Physics Faculty
Active Faculty
