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 September 30, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Celebrate National Astronomy Day at the Hemlock Crossing Public Observatory
The Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association (SAAA) will host an event to celebrate National Astronomy Day on Saturday, October 10, from 12-5 PM at the Hemlock Crossing Public Observatory.
 A visitor looks through a telescope at the Hemlock Crossing Public Observatory, 8115 West Olive Road, West Olive, MI 49460.
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI. — The free event will feature activities for all ages and experience levels, giving families and anyone curious about the sky an opportunity to explore astronomy together.
“We’re excited to give people a chance to experience the wonders of the universe,” said Frank Roldan, SAAA Observatory Director. “Fingers crossed for clear skies!”
Children who attend will receive a free raffle ticket for a chance to win a telescope. Winners will be announced on the SAAA website: holland-saaa.org.
Space-related photographs are also on display and available for purchase inside the Nature Education Center. Photographs are $30 each, with proceeds benefiting Ottawa County Parks and the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association. Payment is accepted through Venmo only.
For more information and to register, visit https://tinyurl.com/2z9y42cc
Event Schedule (weather permitting):
12-5 PM
- Solar observing with the Coronado and Meade LX-600 telescopes
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Self-guided Planet Walk showing the scale of the solar system
8 PM-Midnight
- Night sky observing with multiple telescopes
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Constellation identification and mythological stories
- You must arrive before 10 pm to enter the park.
- Event Schedule (bad weather conditions):
Event Schedule (bad weather conditions):
12–5 PM:
- Planet walk display & telescope exhibit inside the Nature Center
- Space-related video displays inside the Nature center
7–8 PM:
Clear skies are required for telescope viewing. In case of poor weather or cloudy skies, activities will move inside the Nature Center.
 Space-related photographs on display and available for purchase inside the Nature Education Center
About the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association
The Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created for the purpose of furthering the enjoyment of amateur astronomy. They promote science and astronomy in West Michigan through public outreach initiatives in partnership with Ottawa County Parks, the Holland State Park, Hope College, the Holland Museum, local libraries, parks, public schools and other astronomical societies.
About Ottawa County Parks & Recreation
Ottawa County Parks & Recreation manages over 7,700 acres of parks, trails, beaches, and open spaces across Ottawa County, providing opportunities to hike, paddle, explore nature, and enjoy the outdoors year-round. The park system is supported through a combination of the voter-approved Parks & Open Space Millage, grants, partnerships, user fees, philanthropy, and volunteer support. Visit miOttawa.org/parks for more information about the park system.
On November 3, 2026, Ottawa County voters will consider a proposal to increase the Parks & Open Space Millage. Learn more
Photos for media use: Download photos
Media Contact:
Rylie Dorman, Communications Specialist
(616) 994-4774
rdorman@miottawa.org
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