It’s easy to forget the stars are there above NYC, thanks to all the light and air pollution. Most nights, you’re lucky to spot a single one. That’s what makes Astronomy Nights at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt so special. High above the city, on the top floors of the One Vanderbilt building, you’ll look through telescopes alongside astronomers and suddenly, there they are! Planets, constellations, and the moon in astonishing detail. It’s a rare chance to reconnect with the night sky.

What are Astronomy Nights

Visitors stargazing through telescopes at Summit One Vanderbilt's observation deck in New York City.

Astronomy Nights are special monthly stargazing events held from May through September, offering you a rare chance to look beyond the city lights and into the cosmos.

Hosted on SUMMIT One Vanderbilt’s 93rd-floor outdoor terrace, these evenings feature telescopes provided by the Amateur Astronomers Association, Inc., so you can get up-close views of the moon, planets, and stars.

The best part? Astronomy Nights are included with all SUMMIT night experience tickets, so if you’re visiting on one of the event nights, you’re in for a stellar bonus.

What to expect: From city lights to celestial sights

Unmatched views of the city and sky

See the glittering NYC skyline like never before and then lift your gaze to the stars above. SUMMIT’s 93rd-floor terrace offers breathtaking 360° views that blend city lights with celestial sights.

Guided Stargazing with astronomers

Volunteers from the Amateur Astronomers Association, Inc. will help you navigate the night sky. From spotting constellations to identifying planets, they’ll be your guides to the galaxy.

Telescope access

Explore the moon’s craters, Saturn’s rings, or star clusters using professional-grade telescopes. There’s no rush; you can take your time and observe at your own pace.

Interactive Q&A opportunities

Have questions about what you’re seeing? The astronomer volunteers are happy to chat and explain the wonders above, whether you're new to astronomy or just curious.

A sky full of surprises

Depending on the night, you might catch a glimpse of a passing satellite, shooting star, or bright planetary alignment. Each event brings something a little different, and always a lot of wonder.

Event calendar: 2025 Astronomy Nights schedule at a glance

Main Date	June 18, 2025	July 9, 2025	August 6, 2025	September 3, 2025
Time	8:30pm	8:30pm	8:30pm	8pm
Rain date	June 19, 2025	July 10, 2025	August 7, 2025	September 4, 2025

Note: Dates and times are subject to change based on weather conditions and availability. Be sure to check the official SUMMIT website before booking to confirm the most accurate event schedule.

Glimpses from SUMMIT Astronomy Nights

Visitors stargazing through telescopes at Summit One Vanderbilt, New York City skyline in the background.

Visitors stargazing through telescopes at Summit One Vanderbilt, New York City, during Astronomy Nights event.

Visitors stargazing through telescopes at Summit One Vanderbilt, New York, during Astronomy Nights event.

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt illuminated at night with city skyline views, New York City.

Stargazing 101: How to star-gaze like a pro

Arrive early for the best viewing spots: The terrace fills up quickly, especially near the telescopes. If the event starts at 8:30 pm, aim to arrive by 7:30 pm to grab a prime viewing spot and ease into the night sky experience.
Take advantage of extended hours: You’ll have access to the outdoor terrace until 10:30pm, so there’s no rush. Pace yourself and enjoy the skyline views and the night sky.
Chat with the experts: Volunteers from the Amateur Astronomers Association Inc. are there to help. Ask questions. They love sharing cool facts about constellations, planets, and telescope use.
Use a star map app: Before your visit, download an astronomy app like SkyView, Star Walk, or SkySafari to help you identify stars and planets in real time as you explore.
Get your camera ready: Bring a phone with night mode or low-light camera settings to capture those magical moon and skyline shots.
Pro tip: turn off your flash to avoid glare.
Dress smart for the terrace: Evenings at the top can get breezy, so bring a light jacket with you.
Respect the equipment: Telescopes are delicate, so please follow the volunteers’ instructions. Keep food and drinks away from the gear and be mindful of your surroundings.
Share the view: The telescopes are for everyone to enjoy, so be mindful of your time at each one. Take your turn, soak in the sights, and then step aside so others can have their moment with the stars too.
Let your eyes adjust: Step away from bright screens for 10–15 mins so your eyes can fully adapt to the darkness. You’ll be amazed at how much more you can see.

Frequently asked questions about astronomy nights at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

No additional reservation is required. If you have a valid ticket for the SUMMIT Experience on an Astronomy Night date, you're automatically included.