About
“It’s amazing to see so many people passionate about science and wanting to share that.”
The Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory (LDEO) is a world-class science research institution that also plays a vital role in education.
Whether they are charting the ocean floor and measuring ocean carbon or collecting and decoding tree rings for clues to our planet’s climate history, the scientists at LDEO have been on the forefront of groundbreaking research in the Earth sciences for the past 75 years. Since it was founded in 1949 as the Lamont Geological Observatory, LDEO has been an international leader in scientific scholarship, paving the way for a deeper understanding of the geosciences
Established in 1949 as the Lamont Geological Observatory, our first Director was William Maurice “Doc” Ewing, a pioneering earth scientist. Doc started the Open House tradition, opening up the campus for one day each year to neighbors, students, the Columbia University community, and beyond. Even now, few science facilities of LDEO’s caliber and reputation open their doors to the community in this way. For over 50 years, Open House has remained one of our most important events, an exciting opportunity for adults and children of all ages to learn about our planet in fun and engaging ways!
In 1999, in recognition of Lamont’s 50th Anniversary, Open House was expanded to include nearly 40 exhibits, lectures, and demonstrations, and attracted over 4,000 people. And this year we celebrate 75 years!
Attendees learn about the current developments in the earth sciences, and about how our increasing understanding of the Earth helps preserve its future. Different exhibits are aimed at different ages and educational levels, from elementary school-age children to college students to those well-versed in the earth sciences.
Whether you’re an aspiring young scientist or a long-time science enthusiast, you’re sure to enjoy Lamont-Doherty’s Open House. Tour a lab, participate in hands-on earth science demonstrations, and learn from world-renowned researchers about their latest discoveries.
Want to learn more? Browse details, photos, and videos of previous Open Houses in our news archive.
For more informal and formal learning opportunities, check out our student and educator programs, Hudson River Field Station, and degree programs in Earth and environmental science. Through the Climate School, explore K-12 student and educator events, pre-college and professional learning programs, and degree programs in climate.
Keep up with Open House updates and other LDEO news by joining our mailing list and connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and X.