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Maria Mitchell Association

Maria Mitchell Association
Categories

ToursTours - Natural HistoryCampsMuseums & Historic SitesNon-Profit Associations/Organizations

About Us

The Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association is a private non-profit organization located on the island of Nantucket, Massachusetts. The Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and, above all, educator, Maria Mitchell. After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards, including an appointment as the first American Professor of Astronomy at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities.

The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages.

Events

MMA Learning Lab: Daring Daughters: Celebrating Our Island's Trailblazing Women
MMA Learning Lab: Daring Daughters: Celebrating Our Island's Trailblazing Women
  • Jascin Leonardo Finger, MMA Deputy Director and Curator of the Mitchell House, Archives and Special Collections, will host an in person talk about Nantucket’s f
  • Friday Mar 6, 2026
Ravenous Reptiles
  • Join MMA staff on a tour as they feed the hungry animals at the Natural Science Museum! Learn about the unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, and more a
  • Sunday Mar 8, 2026
"Doktor Kaboom: Under Pressure!"
"Doktor Kaboom: Under Pressure!"
Nantucket STEAM Festival
Nantucket STEAM Festival
  • This FREE, STEAM-inspired day of hands-on learning, creativity, and exploration is perfect for children, families, and life-long learners.
  • Saturday Mar 14, 2026
Ravenous Reptiles
  • Join MMA staff on a tour as they feed the hungry animals at the Natural Science Museum! Learn about the unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, and more a
  • Sunday Mar 15, 2026
Ravenous Reptiles
  • Join MMA staff on a tour as they feed the hungry animals at the Natural Science Museum! Learn about the unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, and more a
  • Sunday Mar 22, 2026
Ravenous Reptiles
  • Join MMA staff on a tour as they feed the hungry animals at the Natural Science Museum! Learn about the unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, and more a
  • Sunday Mar 29, 2026
Full Moon Nature Walk with Joanna Roche
Full Moon Nature Walk with Joanna Roche
  • Enjoy the tranquility of the quiet night sky and learn about our Moon's current themes and its important symbolism.
  • Wednesday Apr 1, 2026
MMA Learning Lab: Birding 101 with Ginger Andrews, MMA Field Ornithologist
MMA Learning Lab: Birding 101 with Ginger Andrews, MMA Field Ornithologist
  • MMA Learning Lab – a series of 90 minute workshops on a range of topics designed to spark curiosity, brought to life by MMA experts and special guests.
  • Friday Apr 3, 2026
Ravenous Reptiles
  • Join MMA staff on a tour as they feed the hungry animals at the Natural Science Museum! Learn about the unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, and more a
  • Sunday Apr 5, 2026
"Look Up" at Loines Observatory
"Look Up" at Loines Observatory
Ravenous Reptiles
  • Join MMA staff on a tour as they feed the hungry animals at the Natural Science Museum! Learn about the unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, and more a
  • Sunday Apr 12, 2026
Ravenous Reptiles
  • Join MMA staff on a tour as they feed the hungry animals at the Natural Science Museum! Learn about the unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, and more a
  • Sunday Apr 19, 2026
POP UP! Stargazing at Loines Observatory
POP UP! Stargazing at Loines Observatory
  • Join our professional astronomers for Stargazing Open Nights at Loines Observatory. Get a chance to view an impressive tour of Nantucket’s night sky.
  • Friday Apr 24, 2026
Ravenous Reptiles
  • Join MMA staff on a tour as they feed the hungry animals at the Natural Science Museum! Learn about the unique adaptations of turtles, frogs, snakes, and more a
  • Sunday Apr 26, 2026