Tiny Observatory

The mobile observatory is the result of a collaboration between LEB Weser-Ems/Nord and the Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg. With this tiny observatory, we aim to bring the universe closer to people. It will make the night sky directly accessible to everyone on the East Frisian Peninsula at various locations, accompanied by trained star guides and an exclusive program. Additionally, with two professional telescopes and modern measuring devices, there is the opportunity to participate in scientific observations and to publicly track or exchange recorded data.

The mobile observatory and Dark Sky Guides raise awareness about the issue. Since June 2023, the tiny observatory has been bringing space and astronomy to the people of the East Frisian Peninsula. The interest in this joint project between LEB and the University of Oldenburg has been high from the start, and therefore we want to use this special collaboration to address the important issue of light pollution. This often underestimated and far-reaching problem is frequently overlooked. An excess of light emissions not only affects natural darkness and the astronomical observation environment but also has various negative impacts on animals, plants, and humans. Enabled by the Klaus Tschira Foundation, the project "Lights Out!" aims to raise awareness of the impairments caused by light pollution. On the one hand, our mobile observatory now provides appropriate measurements and educational offerings to raise awareness. On the other hand, Dark Sky Guides are being trained in parallel to integrate the topic into their tours. The next training session will take place in autumn 2025; information and registrations are available immediately at: tinyobs@leb.de.

Program: OPEN OBSERVATORY
Matti Gehlen, Jona Schrader, Maike Inga Schmitz, Lisa Cordes, Delia Gauk (University of Oldenburg)
January 13, January 15, January 22 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
January 26, February 5 | 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
The tiny observatory is open to all curious individuals and can be visited without prior registration. The mobile unit will be thoroughly presented with its technical devices and possibilities, and astronomical observations will take place in suitable weather.

OBSERVING THE BIRTH OF STARS
Dr. Thorsten Ratzka (Astrophysics, Planetarium Osnabrück)
Matti Gehlen (University of Oldenburg)
Wednesday, January 21 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
The observation of glowing nebulae and sparkling star clusters is always fascinating. But what lies behind these objects, and what do they tell us about the formation of stars? The lecture will summarize the fundamentals of our knowledge about star formation based on modern observations. Afterwards, we will head to the telescopes.

FASCINATION INSECTS
Rolf Wellinghorst (Biologist)
Monday, January 26 | 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Insects: In addition to their structure, lifestyle, and research, the lecture will particularly focus on their protection. The threat posed by light pollution and possible countermeasures will play a special role.

WELCOME TO THE DARK SIDE
Dr. Andreas Hänel (Physicist and Astronomer)
Delia Gauk, Maike Inga Schmitz (University of Oldenburg)
Thursday, January 29 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
A travel report on the search for the darkest observation sites in the world. Where is light pollution the least?

THE MOON, OUR SILENT COMPANION
Albrecht Düntsch (Astro-AG Natural Science Association)
Monday, February 2 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
In 1969, humanity set foot on a foreign celestial body for the first time with the Moon – a dream of mankind was fulfilled. The fascination that emanates from the satellite remains. But how did it come to be that such a large object orbits the Earth? What influence does the existence of the Moon have on our planet, and would life have emerged on Earth without the Moon? Is the Moon habitable in the future? Lecture followed by observation.

PRESERVING THE STARRY SKY – AVOIDING LIGHT POLLUTION
Dr. Andreas Hänel (Physicist and Astronomer)
Thursday, February 5 | 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
The focus is on the effects of excessive light emissions on humans, the environment, and star research. Valuable insights from a recognized expert who has long advocated for more darkness in the night sky. This event is part of the "Lights Out!" project by LEB Weser-Ems/Nord on the topic of light pollution. With observation.

WHAT'S HAPPENING ON THE SUN?
Dr. Thomas Kunzemann (Astro-AG Natural Science Association)
Saturday, February 7 | 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
The lecture will first address the surface of the calm sun, later discussing phenomena of solar activity such as spots, flares, prominences, and filaments. Finally, exciting images of the outer solar atmosphere will be shown, which are only visible during a total solar eclipse.