SOLAR OBSERVATION. INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM DAY

To celebrate International Museum Day, the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències is organizing a solar observation session open to the general public. This free activity invites attendees to discover the secrets of our star alongside expert astronomers.

The event will take place on Monday, May 18, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, at the Umbracle’s Astronomy Garden, an ideal setting for scientific outreach in the heart of Valencia. During the session, visitors will enjoy live images of the Sun and learn about the most fascinating aspects of our star.

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Observing the Sun: Phenomena and Technology

Using specialized telescopes, the public will be able to discover solar phenomena that are usually invisible to the naked eye:

• • Solar Spots: Observation of the photosphere using visible light filters.
  • Prominences and Flares: Visible in the chromosphere through H-alpha telescopes, revealing their characteristic deep red color.
  • Safe Projection: A white projection screen will be used to display the Sun’s image safely and comfortably for everyone.

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In addition to direct observation, an exhibition table will be set up to explore the nature of light. Attendees will be able to interact with instruments such as:

• • Glass prisms and spectroscopes.
  • Newton discs and photoelectric cells.
  • Tellurions and scale models of the Solar System.

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Expert-Guided Activity

The session will be guided by qualified staff from Nébula and the Valencian Astronomy Association. These experts will explain fundamental details regarding the Sun’s temperature, composition, and structure in an engaging way for all ages.

Important Safety Notice: Solar observation will be conducted using telescopes equipped
with specialized solar filters. 
Never look directly at the Sun without proper protection.

Practical information

*This activity is subject to weather conditions.