AstroCon 2026
FIRST ANNUAL ASTROCON 2026
Space • Science • History • Imagination
Saturday, August 15, 2026 | 6:00–11:00 PM
Branched Oak Observatory | Raymond, Nebraska
The countdown is on!
Join Branched Oak Observatory for our First Annual AstroCon 2026, a one-of-a-kind evening bringing together astronomy, STEM, America's Space Age, art, creativity, cosplay and our fascination with exploring the universe.
Our inspiration reaches back to the optimism of the 1950s and 1960s, when America's race to space captured the imagination of an entire generation. AstroCon celebrates that incredible era while looking toward the future—and we've assembled quite a crew for our first mission!
ASTRONAUT CLAY ANDERSON | 6–8 PM
We're honored to welcome Nebraska's own astronaut, Clay Anderson, for a special book signing. Meet a man who has actually lived and worked in space, explore his books and give your young explorers the opportunity to meet a real astronaut.
LEGENDARY COMIC ARTIST BOB HALL | 6–9 PM
Legendary comic artist Bob Hall will create live quick sketches for guests and will be joined by additional talented artists. It's a celebration of the connection between art, storytelling, science fiction and our dreams of exploring beyond Earth.
501st LEGION | 6–8 PM
Members of the 501st Legion will make a special appearance. Meet these incredible costumed guests, take photos and enjoy another side of the imagination that has made space and science fiction part of our culture.
COSPLAY COSTUME CONTEST
Suit up and join the mission! Come dressed as an astronaut, alien, robot, scientist, explorer or favorite space-themed character. We'll award 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in our AstroCon Cosplay Costume Contest.
RETURN TO THE SPACE AGE
Step back into the 1950s and '60s through a special collection of Space Age artifacts and memorabilia showing how America's fascination with space influenced toys, household items, technology and popular culture.
We're especially excited to display vintage rocket-themed pedal cars courtesy of the Museum of American Speed, along with other unusual Space Age artifacts you'll have to come see for yourself!
MIKE THE METEORITE
Meet one of Branched Oak Observatory's most popular residents—Mike the Meteorite!
He's considerably older than everyone attending AstroCon and has traveled much farther, too. Guests can actually touch a genuine visitor from outer space while learning what meteorites reveal about our solar system.
SPACE CRAFTS & STEM
Young explorers can participate in hands-on Space Crafts and STEM activities designed to encourage curiosity, creativity and discovery.
Today's child looking through a telescope may become tomorrow's astronomer, engineer, scientist—or astronaut.
ARTISTS • MAKERS • VENDORS
Explore our AstroCon marketplace featuring artists, makers and vendors with original artwork, cosplay-related items, space-inspired creations and other unique finds.
AND WHEN DARKNESS FALLS...WE LOOK UP.
As night arrives, we'll do what Branched Oak Observatory does best: explore the real universe.
Weather and sky conditions permitting, our astronomy team will turn the telescopes toward the night sky and help guests discover the wonders overhead.
YOUR ASTROCON MISSION
Saturday, August 15, 2026 | 6–11 PM
👨🚀 Clay Anderson — Book Signing | 6–8 PM
✏️ Bob Hall — Live Quick Sketches | 6–9 PM
🌌 501st Legion — Special Appearance | 6–8 PM
Plus Cosplay • Space Age Artifacts • Rocket Pedal Cars • Mike the Meteorite • Space Crafts & STEM • Artists & Vendors • Food Truck • Telescope Viewing
Branched Oak Observatory
14300 NW 98th Street
Raymond, Nebraska 68428
THEBOO.ORG
Bring the family. Bring your curiosity. Bring your imagination. We'll supply the universe.
Admission $10 for Adults, $5 for kids 5-13 and kids under 5 are FREE
🚀 LOOK UP • WONDER • DISCOVER
