What’s Happening at the Maria Mitchell Association This September
September may mark the transition from summer to fall on Nantucket, but things are far from slowing down at the Maria Mitchell Association. After a busy summer of Discovery Camps, science programs, stargazing, and the inaugural Stargazer Circus, the MMA is heading into fall with a full calendar of programs celebrating science, nature, history, and the island environment.
From exploring Nantucket Harbor to looking deep into the night sky, here are a few highlights to have on your radar this September.
A Short September Break
The Maria Mitchell Association’s programs and facilities will take a short seasonal break from September 5 through September 10, before returning with fall programming.
Before the break, visitors can still take advantage of several early-September programs, including walking tours, marine ecology experiences, stargazing, and hands-on science activities.
MMA Tie Dye Fest
Saturday, September 12 | 2–3pm
Hinchman House Natural Science Museum, 7 Milk Street
Celebrate the end of summer with an afternoon of tie-dyeing in the garden at the Natural Science Museum. Participants will transform the MMA’s signature white Stargazer Circus T-shirts into colorful keepsakes to wear throughout the fall.
All materials are provided, and admission to the Natural Science Museum is included. Pre-registration is required. Register here.
Science Speaker Series: Three Years of Nantucket Harbor Research
Wednesday, September 23 | 7–8pm
33 Washington Street + Zoom
One of the month’s highlights is the return of the MMA Science Speaker Series with Dr. Elizabeth “Betsy” Sherman, Senior Marine Science Advisor at the Maria Mitchell Association.
Her presentation, “Signals, Surprises, and Better Questions: Three Years of Buoy Monitoring in Nantucket Harbor,” will explore what scientists have learned through three years of continuous monitoring in the harbor.
The research looks at how tides, sunlight, storms, biological activity, and changing environmental conditions interact within one of Nantucket’s most important ecosystems. Sherman will also offer a behind-the-scenes look at the scientific process—including what happens when the data challenges an original hypothesis.
The presentation is free and can be attended in person or via Zoom.
Fall Programs for Young Scientists
Beginning in September, younger island scientists can continue exploring Nantucket’s natural world through several recurring MMA programs.
Blue Science Club meets Fridays at the MMA Aquarium and gives students in grades 6–8 the opportunity to investigate marine wildlife, coastal ecosystems, water quality, ocean technology, and conservation through hands-on activities.
At the Natural Science Museum, Weekend Crafting combines nature, science, and art, while Sensational Science, offered September 19 and 26, may include everything from microscopic investigations and shark biology to plankton collection.
Stargazing at Loines Observatory
Nantucket’s fall skies offer plenty of reasons to keep looking up. Stargazing Open Nights continue Wednesdays and Fridays from 8–9pm at Loines Observatory.
MMA astronomers guide visitors through the night sky using the observatory’s historic 8-inch Alvan Clark refractor and modern 24-inch research telescope, with opportunities to see the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, and even distant galaxies depending on conditions. Stargazing Registration.
Explore Nantucket on a Bird Walk
The MMA’s Nantucket Bird Walks with Ginger Andrews continue on September 13, 20, and 27. Fall migration makes September an especially interesting time for birding on Nantucket, with the island’s varied habitats attracting both migratory species and year-round residents.
Looking Ahead at the MMA
September also marks an exciting period for the organization itself. The MMA has begun sharing plans for a new Discovery Center & Aquarium, envisioned as an interactive space where future generations can explore marine life, work with microscopes, meet scientists and interns, and experience science firsthand.
The organization is also continuing the celebration of Maria Mitchell’s legacy with another Stargazer beer from Cisco Brewers, this year a Pilsner, following the success of the first Stargazer Circus this summer.
Summer may be winding down, but there are still plenty of opportunities to explore Nantucket’s sky, land, sea, history, and wildlife with the Maria Mitchell Association this fall.
Visit the Maria Mitchell Association for the complete calendar, registration information, and the latest program updates.