About John Glenn Astronomy Park

The John Glenn Astronomy Park is a project of the Friends of the Hocking Hills State Park, a non-profit (501c3) membership organization for people who love the Hocking Hills and take special interest in improving Park features and preserving it for the enjoyment of future generations.

An astronomy park in the Hocking Hills State park was inspired by our vanishing night sky. The Hocking Hills, in rural southeastern Ohio, is one of the few areas left in the state of Ohio where the night sky can be seen in its near pristine state. The observatory will provide a venue for visitors to the Hocking Hills State park to experience the night sky through a large telescope and with their own eyes.

History of John Glenn Astronomy Park

John Glenn Astronomy Park was established to honor Ohio native and space pioneer John Glenn while celebrating the naturally dark skies of the Hocking Hills region. Developed through a partnership between Hocking Hills State Park and local astronomy advocates, the park opened in the early 2010s to provide a dedicated space for stargazing, education, and public astronomy programs. Featuring an observation deck, telescopes, and an indoor planetarium, the park continues Glenn’s legacy of exploration by inspiring visitors to look up, learn, and connect with the universe.