Only part of the world of astronomy can be seen through a telescope. Satellites bring us close-up views of distant planets and their moons.
Computers help astronomers unravel the lives of stars.
These ideas and more are brought down to Earth by the Observatory's exhibits and displays. You can make your own telescope, travel through the solar system on a scavenger hunt, or explore the properties of light. At other exhibits, you can see the universe in 3-D or touch a rock from space. This spectacular mural of the Orion Nebula, painted by Martha Dawson, greets visitors as they enter the Observatory. The Observatory's Exhibit Hall includes astronomy computer games, outdoor exhibits and a collection of Kansas Meteorites.