About the observatory
In the Kennemerduinen between Haarlem and Zandvoort lies Volkssterrenwacht Copernicus, where we welcome visitors for free since 1974 to experience the universe up close. Through our telescope, you can observe the moon, planets, stars, and the sun during the day.
There's always something to do, for young and old, even when it's cloudy. We offer lectures, a changing exhibition, courses, and an astrophotography working group.
The observatory is entirely run by volunteers and is recognized as a public benefit organization (ANBI non profit).
Agenda
Very large solar eclipse on 12th of August
On Wednesday 12 August a partial solar eclipse takes place. The eclipse begins at 19:17, and the maximum of the eclipse is at 20:11. At that point 88% of the sun's surface will be covered.
Unfortunately the Sun and the Moon are then only 8 degrees above the horizon. So you will have to find a spot with a good view of the western horizon. The boulevard between Bloemendaal aan Zee and Zandvoort is of course an obvious choice.
The eclipse ends at 21:03, and the Sun and the Moon set together shortly afterwards at 21:13. In clear weather the entire eclipse will therefore be visible, but just above the horizon.
Entry Course Astronomy
Twice a year we organize an Entry Astronomy course. It starts in September or January. With this course, you will gain a good general understanding of astronomy. The course is intended for a general audience and does not require any special prior knowledge.
In this course, topics such as Sky Orientation, Origin and Life Cycle of Stars, The Birth of the Universe, and much more will be covered. Additionally, there will be two practical evenings where you will have the opportunity to observe through our telescope and learn to use a planisphere. The course is held exclusively in dutch.
Volunteers
At the Copernicus Observatory, everything is done by a group of passionate volunteers. They guide visitors, operate the telescope, and give presentations. In addition, they take care of maintenance, work on improvements, and carry out projects. There's always plenty to do, which is why we're constantly looking for people who'd enjoy helping out.
KNVWS
Sternenwacht Copernicus is a member of the Koninklijke Nederlandse Vereniging voor Weer- en Sterrenkunde