October 2025:
How the Cincinnati Observatory Inspires 4th Graders Through Hands-On Astronomy Field Trips

The Cincinnati Observatory, known as ‘The Birthplace of American Astronomy,’ provides Adopt A Class 4th grade students from Greater Cincinnati field trips to their two historic buildings in Hyde Park. Housing one of the oldest working telescopes in the world, the Cincinnati Observatory’s mission is “to maintain the integrity and heritage of an historic 19th century observatory and to educate, engage, and inspire our community about astronomy and science,” and they have been doing so since the mid 1800s. 

Through an interactive tour of the Observatory, Adopt A Class students learn about the two historic telescopes housed at the Observatory and how astronomers use them to learn about our galaxy and universe. During the tour, students interact with Cincinnati Observatory employees with hands on opportunities that bring astronomy to students’ fingertips.

Over the last 3 years, the Cincinnati Observatory has impacted over 2000 students and is projected to impact an additional 700 to 900 students alone this school year. To learn more about the Cincinnati Observatory, check out their website at www.cincinnatiobservatory.org. 

Sneak Peak of More Career Connected Field Trips

  • Denise DiStasi is a Cincinnati based children’s author whose books center around the adventures of her rescue dog, Louie and explore topics like love, kindness, and teamwork. Denise shares her stories and passion for reading with Adopt A Class 1st graders.  

  • The Cincinnati Observatory, known as ‘The Birthplace of American Astronomy,’ provides Adopt A Class 4th grade students from Greater Cincinnati field trips to their two historic buildings in Hyde Park. 

  • Gateway Community & Technical College invites AAC students to their Covington and Boone Co. campuses for field trips that include campus tours and an admissions presentation to 6th graders throughout Northern Kentucky. Students explore Gateway's 2-year programs in the trades, manufacturing, nursing, information technology, and education.