Astronomy Night – Vernal Equinox

Friday, March 20, 2026

6 to 8 p.m.

Location: Great Lawn

Join Discovery Park of America and Dr. Lionel Crews from the University of Tennessee at Martin Department of Astronomy for an evening exploring the science and history of the vernal equinox.

The vernal equinox occurs when the tilt of Earth’s axis causes the sun to rise due east and set due west, marking the midpoint of the sun’s yearly path across the sky. For centuries, civilizations around the world recognized the significance of this event and built traditions and structures aligned with the changing seasons.

Guests will gather on the Great Lawn to learn about the science behind the equinox, its cultural importance throughout history and how it influences the way we observe the night sky.

You will discover:

Why the sun rises due east and sets due west during the vernal equinox

How Earth’s tilt affects the changing seasons

How ancient civilizations observed and celebrated the equinox

How the equinox influences our view of the sky

Please follow event signs and park on the north side of the parking lot. Guests should enter through the Let It Glow gate.

This event is weather dependent and may be rescheduled. Please check the Discovery Park website for updates on the day of the program.

Passport to the Universe

Astronomy Night – Vernal Equinox is the third class in Discovery Park’s Passport to the Universe program. Guests who attend five or more classes in 2026 will receive a commemorative patch.

Participants who already have a Passport to the Universe booklet should bring it with them to receive credit for attending.

Passport to the Universe programs are free and open to all guests.