Buffalo Museum of Science to open decks for rooftop viewings

“Twilight at the Museum” will run from 8 to 11 pm July 12, Aug. 9 and Sept. 6.

The summer sky changes from month to month, offering different celestial sights on each of those Friday evenings, museum officials said.

In addition to safe views of the setting sun from the museum deck, patrons will have a chance to observe Venus and Mercury when the brightest of “stars” come out on July 12, weather permitting.

On Aug. 9, those equipped with telescopes can get a sneak peek at the mountains and valleys of a crescent moon as it follows Venus to set in the west, and get a closer look at the stars.

Sept. 6 promises a close-up view of Saturn, its rings and many moons, and, with the sun setting earlier, guests will get extra time to hunt for deep sky objects, including star clusters and nebulae.

The rooftop is accessible by stairs or elevator but will be closed in the event of inclement weather, in which case astronomy talks will be held indoors.

Guests during all three events can also enjoy museum exhibits and galleries.

Registration costs $20 per person, or $5 with museum membership.

Museum operators strongly encourage advance online registration at sciencebuff.org/event/twilight-at-the-museum, as each of the “Twilight at the Museum” events has sold out since the summer series began in 2022.