Twin City Amateur Astronomers - Bloomington-Normal

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This is an astronomy club that was started in the 1960’s and it teaches people about interesting facts about astronomy.

Public Observing Sessions

These Public Observing Sessions are free. The Public Observing Sessions are for both members and nonmembers. These sessions take place once a month at the Sugar Grove Nature Center. The sessions usually last about two hours. In the past some of their topics have been about; Jupiter, Saturn, and The Great Nebula of Orion. The sessions start when it gets dark enough to see the stars. Bright lights such as flashlights are greatly discouraged. The parking area is in the same area where the telescopes will be. As you are driving in or out be on the look out for people walking around in the dark to get to the telescopes or where the PowerPoint is. A member of the club gives a short PowerPoint presentation about astronomy. After that a club member shows the viewers where to look to find the major constellations in the night sky. By that time the telescopes are set up and ready to use. The telescopes that are brought are powerful telescopes and they are the kind that you can not just purchase at the store. These activities are outside after dark so dress appropriately. Also make sure to wear bug spray.

Directions

To get to the Sugar Grove Observatory you must:

1. Head southwest (toward Springfield) on I-55 from Bloomington/Normal.

2. Take Exit 154 at Shirley which is located about 4 miles from the outskirts of Bloomington.

3. Turn right at the end of the off-ramp and continue west about 1/10 mile to the T intersection.

4. Turn left (heading southwest) at the T intersection (old Route 66).

5. Proceed 4 miles along old Route 66 (paralleling I-55) until you reach Funk's Grove.

6.Turn right (west) onto Funk's Grove Road and cross over the railroad tracks.

7. Take the first left at Funk's Grove, following the signs to the paint ball area and church.

8. Continue 1.8 miles along this road (550N) until you come to an intersection. 9. Pass straight through the intersection going south on the "dead-end" fork. 10. Sugar Grove Nature Center appears as an old farmstead near the end of the road.”

Note: They will only do the Public Observing Sessions if the weather is good. If it looks like they might cancel then call and ask them if they intend to cancel. Their phone number is 309-824-2804.