Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium at Butler University, Indiana

Spend your Summer vacation stargazing in Indiana this year. There are actually a handful of observatories in the state. If you didn't know about them, they're the perfect activity for kids, families or even a romantic date. But I want to tell you specifically about the Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium. This is an often overlooked but truly amazing recreational activity.

This observatory is located on the campus of Butler University and is run by the Department of Physics and Astronomy. It's actually one of the largest public observatories in the world, according to the Butler University website. I personally have seen Saturn through their 38 inch Cassegrain reflector.

Actually seeing a planet through a telescope is a truly magical experience for both kids and adults. (Though it may take a little explaining to the kids that they're looking at the real deal and not just a picture. But once they really understand that, their reaction is priceless.) It's an extra treat for science geeks and would make a wonderful birthday surprise for the Trekkie in your life.

Public viewings are taking place this summer on June 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, and 27 as well as July 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, and 25. Doors open at 8:00 PM, the planetarium show begins at 8:30, and the telescope viewing is from 9:30 - 10:30. Of course, when it comes to the telescope viewing, a clear sky is a must.

The entire evening costs $3 for adults, $2 for children, students, and seniors, and a there is a total cost of $7 dollars for a family of five or less. These prices are a truly incredible deal when it comes to summer recreation, its cheaper than the movies, a water park, and pretty much any restaurant around and what you get for your money is educational and highly unique.

Private tours can also be scheduled for groups of 15 or more, but you can't schedule them for nights reserved for a public viewing. This is an excellent idea for a field trip for a home school group, church group, or any other type of organized group...for kids or adults.

If you can't make it this summer, know that Holcomb is typically open to the public every year at various dates from late January to late July and from mid-September through early December, typically accompanying the academic schedule at Butler University. For more information or directions, you can call (317) 940-8333 Holcomb is located at the north end of campus, and the website says that, "the campus can be reached by heading west on 46^th Street from Meridian Street.

The website is also available at the following url http://www.butler.edu/holcomb-observatory/?pg=4572&navID=15293 At the website, you can get all types of timely details, such as what the presentation will be about based on current planetary alignment. You can also get many details about the telescope itself, star charts, light pollution, history of the observatory, current research, and so much more. Even the website is enough to get you intrigued.