Membership FAQs

Q : How do I join the Cincinnati Observatory?
A: You can join online here, in person at our gift shop, or via mail by printing off and sending in a mail-in membership form and a check with “membership” on the memo line to Cincinnati Observatory, 3489 Observatory Pl, Cincinnati, OH 45208. 

Q: Is my membership tax deductible?
A: Yes, membership to the Cincinnati Observatory is fully tax deductible.

Q: When will I receive my membership card?
A: A membership card will be sent via mail along with a receipt for your membership donation and will usually arrive within 1-2 weeks of purchase.

Q: Can I apply the cost of my admission/ tickets to events to a membership? 
A: Yes, admission to the Observatory or admission cost to select events can be applied to the cost of a new membership, please reach out to Visitor Experience Coordinator Kelsey Stryffe at kelsey@cincinnatiobservatory.org to if you have questions on applying these purchases to the membership cost.

Q: What if I have a change of address?
A: Please call or email our Executive Director Anna Hehman anna@cincinnatiobservatory.org with your new address, or you can use our contact form to inform us of your new address.

Q: How do I use my membership card for admission and discounts offered at the Observatory?
A: Just show your membership card at the point of purchase and we will validate it so you can receive your discounts. When purchasing tickets online, select the appropriate option.

Q: How do I redeem my free guest admission tickets?
A: Email Kelsey at kelsey@cincinnatiobservatory.org ahead of your visit to redeem your free passes.

Q: How do I upgrade my membership?
A: You can contribute the difference to the new membership level online or via check. Then please notify our Executive Director Anna Hehman at anna@cincinnatiobservatory.org so she can upgrade your membership level and send you a new membership card. 

Q: How long is my membership valid?
A: Your membership is valid for one year from date of purchase. Memberships expire on the day on which you purchased your Membership. If you renew before the month of your current expiration date, then your Membership will be extended 12 months beyond your current expiration date.

Q: How do I get access to the telescope lending program?
A: Email Nicole at nicole@cincinnatiobservatory.org to inquire about a telescope loan.

Q: Once I'm a member, how can I get more involved in learning more about astronomy and space science? 

A: The Observatory has a dedicated group of amateur astronomers called Friends of the Observatory (FOTO). FOTO hosts a monthly meeting on the 2nd Monday of each month that is open to all Observatory members and features a speaker on a fun and interesting astronomical topic. FOTO also coordinates the Observatory's Stonelick Stargazes monthly dark sky viewing events (weather permitting) and other social events throughout the year. The details of all FOTO activities will be included in the monthly Observatory Members email.