We ask that viewers do not physically touch the telescope or eyepiece (it is tempting for viewers of all ages) because the telescope is always moving by computer control, and touching will cause the image to shake.

Please refrain from using flashlights or looking at your cellphones during your visit to the observatory. The best viewing is obtained when your eyes are “dark adapted”. We use red lights to assist your night vision, and looking at bright lights will instantly cause your eyes to react and lose the ability to more easily see fainter objects.

Flash photography is not allowed.

The observatory staff will choose objects that are available for viewing that evening. We will try to see several objects during an evening, but that is dependent on the number of people waiting in line.

Please feel free to stay and watch our educational videos on the patio as you wait.

​

Ask our volunteers any astronomy related question that is on your mind, but please be respectful of other guests who are waiting to view.

MAY

Evening Planets

(after sunset)

​ 

• Mercury

​

Morning Planets

(before sunrise)

​

• Venus

• Mars

• Jupiter

• Saturn

• Uranus

• Nepturn

​

Comets

none currently visible in binoculars

​​

Meteors

Eta Aquariids

peaks around May 4 - 6