Public Space Observing Night

For the evening events you are invited to join us as early as dusk, but you may choose to arrive up to two hours after twilight ends and still enjoy our full program and find the crowd smaller at the later time. The activities on a public night include an introductory presentation on astronomy and the observatory, viewing thru our 24 inch telescope in the West observatory, various portable telescopes set up near the observatory structure, the telescope and CCD camera in the East wing, and our newest addition, an 8" refracting telescope perfect for viewing the planets.

You will also have the opportunity to ask questions of our friendly and knowledgable docents, and discuss astronomy, telescopes, cosmology, and other topics in an informal atmosphere with other guests and docents.

Be sure to bring warm clothing (even in summer!) as these events are open-air and the temperatures at the observatory altitude are often cooler than in nearby communities. Parking is at the horse stables, and you may want to bring a flashlight for the short walk from there to the telescopes. Red cellophane is provided for your flashlight to help preserve your night vision.

At all times:
Request a parking pass from the Park Ranger at the entrance booth and/or read and adhere to the parks admission policies posted at the gate. (You will be charged the "Day Use" fee of $8.00 and receive a parking pass.) Failure to do so will result in a parking fine.