The University of Wisconsin-Superior's Schrieber Observatory offers the public an opportunity to see galaxies, planets, star clusters and nebulae at star-gazing sessions on Friday nights.

The observatory is open from 8 to 11 p.m. each Friday if the sky is at least 70 percent clear. For more information or to determine whether the observatory will be open, please call 715-394-8257 before coming to campus. A recorded message will tell you the observatory's status for that evening.

Special sessions at the observatory can be scheduled for private groups, birthday parties, anniversaries and other special events. Teachers at Twin Ports area schools can arrange for class sessions or astronomy outreach programs.

The observatory atop Barstow Hall features a computer-driven 12-inch optical telescope. The observatory is accessible by entering through the breezeway between Barstow and McCaskill halls and taking the stairs or elevator to the third floor.

Admission is free. Donations help support the observatory's operation.