Astronomical Aperitivo (Parco Tevere Marconi)

An open-air observatory on the Tiber

The Astronomical Aperitivo is a series of educational gatherings that, during summer evenings, transforms the lawns of Parco Tevere Marconi—along the Lungotevere di Pietra Papa in Rome's Marconi district—into an open-air scientific observatory. The initiative is promoted by AstroGen APS, a Roman association dedicated to astronomy outreach and the promotion of the scientific method, in collaboration with the Habicura space, which manages the riverside park.

How the evening works

Each event follows the same spirit: deckchairs and seating facing the Tiber, an aperitivo served on the grass, and, at the heart of it all, a physicist guiding the audience through the most fascinating phenomena of the cosmos. Complex concepts are explained in everyday terms so that anyone—even without a scientific background—can follow the discussion, ask questions, and participate. The formula perfectly combines the pleasure of summer socialising with curiosity about the universe.

Cosmic themes

The meetings tackle a major astrophysics theme each time. Recurring topics include:

• Black holes: how science studies bodies that emit no light, gravitational time dilation, the spaghettification of matter, and the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* at the centre of our galaxy;
• Stars: the entire life cycle of celestial bodies, from their birth in gaseous nebulae to their final fates—white dwarfs for smaller stars, explosions for giants—and the formation of the chemical elements that make up planets and life;
• The deep sky: planets, the Moon, binary stars, and deep-sky objects observed directly from the lawn.

AstroGen and outreach in Rome

AstroGen APS brings together physics experts and amateur astronomers who take science out of the classroom through local observations, school workshops, and public events. The aperitivi at Parco Tevere Marconi are part of a broader calendar of events in the Lazio region, which throughout the summer also visits other towns in the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital. The goal is to bring the general public closer to astronomy in a relaxed and accessible setting.

A summer under the stars in the Marconi district

Situated on the left bank of the Tiber, Parco Tevere Marconi offers a stunning backdrop for these evenings: the river, the greenery, and the city sky become the setting for an encounter that, between a glass of wine and a gaze upward, restores a sense of wonder to all who attend. It is a unique and engaging way to experience the Roman summer, perfect for the curious, enthusiasts, and families alike.