Is prior experience necessary?

No prior experience is required; the camp is designed for all skill levels.

Bring comfortable clothes, water, snacks, and sun protection if needed.

Can kids participate?

Yes, the camp is suitable for youth ages 12 and up, with adult supervision.

Are there any age restrictions?

Participants should be at least 12 years old.

Is the event weather-dependent?

Yes, activities are subject to weather; in case of severe weather, schedules may be adjusted.

How long does the camp last?

The experience typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours.

Space-Themed Adventure at Cincinnati Observatory

Adventure Brief

Launch your adventure at Cincinnati Observatory with the Adult Astronaut Academy, where space training and outdoor fun collide. Discover what it takes to be an astronaut with hands-on activities, obstacle courses, and space science. Keep reading for the full experience!

2–3 hours

moderate

From $30.00

The Cincinnati Observatory, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, offers a unique twist on outdoor adventure through its Adult Astronaut Academy. This engaging program takes participants beyond terrestrial bounds into the realm of space training. Designed for aspiring astronauts and space enthusiasts aged 12 and up, the camp combines fun, education, and physical challenge in a way that appeals to all ages. Participants gear up for a simulated Moon survival mission, where they learn about the rigors of life on the lunar surface. The experience includes tasting astronaut food—dried, freeze-dried meals—and tackling obstacle courses that test their agility and problem-solving skills, echoing the physical demands of astronaut training. The Cincinnati Observatory's commitment to inspiring future explorers makes it a standout destination, blending scientific discovery with outdoor activity. The location itself, with its historic telescope and scenic grounds, adds a captivating backdrop for this space-themed adventure. Whether you're a space buff or a family seeking a memorable outing, the Adult Astronaut Academy offers a crackling mix of hands-on learning and physical activity, fostering curiosity and teamwork. This program exemplifies the innovative spirit of Cincinnati and positions the city as a hub for unusual outdoor experiences. Perfect for those looking to combine education, adventure, and a little interstellar fantasy, it offers a one-of-a-kind journey that rockets beyond the ordinary. The Cincinnati Observatory’s engaging approach makes it a must-visit for serious adventurers and curious minds alike. With a focus on inspiring the next generation of explorers, this camp is an extraordinary addition to Ohio's outdoor activity scene, delivering a stellar adventure in a historic setting that ignites imaginations.

About Cincinnati Observatory

Cincinnati Observatory in Cincinnati, Ohio is a historic public observatory and education center offering guided tours, family programs, classes, and telescope viewing. Established with an original 1845 telescope still in use, the Observatory preserves 19th-century astronomical instruments and continues community outreach through diverse events.

Programs include daytime history tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays that highlight the buildings, main telescopes, safe solar viewing, and a gift shop. Sunday History Tours delve into the Observatory’s role in weather forecasting and timekeeping, showcase the original 1843 cornerstone, and feature the interactive Sundial. Evening offerings combine presentations, telescope viewing, and guided tours; Astronomy Evenings emphasize the Observatory’s historic 1845 telescope.

Hands-on and family-focused experiences span Meet a Meteorite, Interstellar Adventures for families with children ages 5–12, Family Astronomy Night, and Planet Walk Tours that scale the solar system with a 450-foot trek to Pluto. Adult-focused programming includes the Adult Astronaut Academy training camp, Space Exploration class series that explores Voyager, Galileo, and Cassini missions, and special-topic nights such as Pluto Night and astronomy archives events.

The Observatory partners with regional collectors and expert speakers for meteorite showcases, lectures, and hands-on experiments. Visitors can expect educational, science-driven experiences suitable for families, students, and adults interested in astronomy, history, and space exploration. Programming schedules and ticketing information are available through the Observatory’s official channels.

Special events include Late Night Date Night and more. Interstellar Adventures runs Saturdays with telescope viewing and pizza; attend five adventures in 2025 to enter a drawing to win a Family Membership.