Question 1

What does the observation include?

Accepted Answer

After your arrival you will be treated to a warm charbolit and settle down on our mats. In the first part of the observation, we will take you on a celestial tour with the great and fascinating story of the sky, from the development of astronomy to the great discoveries of our time. 
 
With the help of laser beams that almost touch the stars, we will get to know the dome of the sky and the twinkling stars, with fascinating explanations and stories. We will present the constellations of the zodiac, find out how to easily locate the North Star, notice prominent stars and get to know the mythological stories associated with their names.
​
During the training, our guides will pass and serve hot herbal tea. And there's nothing like drinking something hot on a desert night.
​
In the second part of the observation we will move to telescopes. You will have at your disposal a battery of sophisticated telescopes through which we will observe the craters of the moon and the planets, get to know deep sky objects, star clusters, galaxies and nebulae - whatever the sky will provide us on the night of the observation.

Question 2

How long does the activity last?

Accepted Answer

The activity is between an hour and a half and two hours (unless explicitly stated otherwise). But we always enjoy staying longer and continuing to discover the north of the universe and everything that is intriguing.

Question 3

Where do we meet?

Accepted Answer

We hold our open activities in the Sde Boker area. On the day of the observation, you will receive an SMS/WhatsApp link to reach the exact location where the observation will take place (in the Waze app). It is important to note: there may be changes in the location due to weather conditions or a load of travelers. If there is a change, you will receive a notification about it up to two hours in advance with the updated location.

Question 4

is there a walk

Accepted Answer

No. Our tour is a heavenly tour. The parking is near the observatory.

Question 5

Is the place accessible?

Accepted Answer

Indeed. There is easy access for a baby carriage or wheelchair. However, the meeting point may change at the last minute due to the conditions (weather or load of travelers), so we would appreciate it if you would inform us if necessary when ordering the ticket in order to prepare on the spot.

Question 6

How many people in the group?

Accepted Answer

The open activities take place in a format of up to 30 people per guide on normal days. In special events up to 100 people.
 
We give personal attention to each participant. The number of guides, the telescopes and the accompanying equipment are adapted to the size of the group and according to the extensive experience we have gained. There is no load on the telescopes in any case.

Question 7

Is there a minimum number of participants?

Accepted Answer

The opening of the activity is conditional on the registration of a minimum of 8 participants. In the event that they register for less than that, we will notify those who registered on the day of the activity itself and allow them to change to another date or qualify for the full amount.

Question 8

Is the activity suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

We recommend coming with children aged 7 and over. During holidays, special dates and Israeli holidays, there is also observation and training for children aged 5 and over. Want to make sure? You are welcome to contact us by phone before ordering: 052-727-6100

Question 9

From what age do you pay?

Accepted Answer

The activity is suitable and recommended from the age of 7. However, a child must have a ticket from the age of 3. In our experience, the small children are interested in the telescopes and want to stand in line with everyone, so they are taken into account in terms of the size of the team and the amount of equipment in the activity.

Question 10

Is it also interesting for adults?

Accepted Answer

You have no idea how much. If you are also curious about the spectacular view of the planets through a telescope? Are you looking for science and general knowledge? Do you dream of stars even during the day? Do the kids ask you questions about space and you don't always have an answer? Do you want to look at the sky and know the names of the stars and how to easily locate the North Star or the planets? Interested in seeing the constellation that represents your luck in the sky? If you nodded "yes" For one or more of the questions, this activity is just for you. 
 
The instructors of the singing of the stars try to provide instruction according to the style, age and level of knowledge of the participants.

Question 11

What clothing to bring to the observation?

Accepted Answer

It is recommended to arrive in warm clothes in all seasons. In winter, you must have very warm clothes! (Coat, thermal clothing, wool hat, scarf, and anything else that will make you warm and cozy). We also take care of hot tea and indulgent charcuterie. 
 
In addition, it is extremely important to arrive with closed shoes. The activity in nature under the sky during the hours of darkness and we don't always see what we are stepping on. For us, safety is above all. Make sure of that.

Question 12

And what happens if there is rain or clouds at the end?

Accepted Answer

We depend on the grace of heaven. Therefore, there may be cloudy days from time to time that will not allow the observation to take place as planned. If the weather conditions do not allow a routine observational activity, we may reduce or change the nature of the activity to suit the situation, or cancel it - according to the rich experience we have gained. 
 
In case of cancellation of the activity, a full credit will be received for the garden. It is important to note that we monitor the weather situation until the last moment and a notice of cancellation of an activity in such a case may be received up to an hour and a half before the start of the activity. Beyond that, you should also take into account that sometimes clouds that did not appear in the forecast may arrive in the middle of the activity.
 
We have no control over the sky. Accept this with understanding.

Question 13

What do we see in telescopes?

Accepted Answer

We will observe the craters of the moon, the planets, deep sky bodies, star clusters, double stars, galaxies and nebulae - whatever the sky will provide us on the night of the observation. The sights change every night, month and season. But they are always fascinating, beautiful and exciting.
 
On moonless nights we will focus on deep space - globular and open star clusters, nebulae and double stars and planets.
 
On moonlit nights we enjoy the spectacular beauty of the moon's craters and the dark seas on its surface, the planets and bright objects. It is important to know that on moonlit nights it will not be possible to look at objects in the depths of space or even see the Milky Way in the sky.

Question 14

What do you sit on in the observation deck?

Accepted Answer

We bring comfortable and soft mats with us, so we recommend to "get mated" - That is to lie on the mats with a warm kerbolit and raise your eyes to the sky. That way you'll be sure to see stars and you've even doubled the chance of catching a meteor - and making a wish.
 
If you still fear that you won't be able to manage without a chair, we recommend and suggest that you come to the observation deck with a folding chair.

Question 15

Do you have any further questions?

Accepted Answer

Write to us or contact us by phone: 052-670-5523/ 052-727-6100.
 
Please note: ticket purchases are made through the website only.

SHIRAT COHAVIM

Observatory - an astronomy experience

Frequently asked questions