MESO, the Mobile Earth and Space Observatory

Explore space with MESO at the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center!

MESO, the Mobile Earth + Space Observatory, is an environmental and space science laboratory outfitted with hands-on educational and research instrumentation supporting activities focused on weather, climate, astronomy and renewable energy.

The goal for this ‘science center on wheels’ is to engage the public in scientific inquiry and allow them to engage with authentic science first-hand, experience what it means to be a scientist, and have a realistic exposure of the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) pathway.

This in-person and virtual star party will include a variety of presentations on the “Science of Astronomy” and features the Mobile Earth & Space Observatory (MESO) in the main parking lot of the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center.

Visitors will peer through telescopes at the sun during the day and at celestial objects when it gets dark. A variety of presentations will be given throughout the day on telescopes, how we learn from light, and the what’s out there in space.

We will also be streaming virtual programs throughout the day on Facebook Live.

Physical distancing and disinfection of touch surfaces will be practiced along with a one-way traffic flow, and we will limit visitors to 40 per hour. Please bring a mask to wear in the event.