Robert Ferguson Observatory, Sonoma County Astronomy for Everyone

Donate / Subscribe / Volunteer

Coming Events

(Observatory is open to the public
ONLY for scheduled events).

POWER OUTAGE STATUS
as of Thursday, November 21, 3:30pm:

Power has been restored to the Robert Ferguson Observatory and all events will continue as scheduled. This information will be updated as conditions change.

Saturday, November 23

Solar Observing: 11am-3pm
Star Party: 6pm
Details

Friday, November 29

Day after Thanksgiving

Solar Observing: 11am-3pm
Star Party: 6pm
Details

Friday, Nov. 22, 7pm

If you've ever looked up at the stars overhead and wondered what else is up there, the Robert Ferguson Observatory's "Whats Up?" program is designed for you!

The program will feature a talk, suitable for all ages, on objects in our local galaxy, the Milky Way, and very deep space objects beyond. The small group format insures you'll get plenty of time at the telescopes!

Tickets may be purchased via Brown Paper Tickets.

Night Sky Classes

FALL SERIES

Sept. 23, Sept. 30, Oct. 21
Oct. 28, Nov. 18, Nov. 25, Dec 16

A series of six classes focusing on the Spring constellations and their deep-sky objects. Classes last about an hour with telescope observing after class. For prices and more information go to our Classes page.

_______________

Want to help us keep our doors open?

RFO at night

Above: The Observatory at night. Photo by Mark Hillestad
Top right photo of Refractor Telescope by Jerry Telfer

Rent an
Observatory?

Yes, you can!
Treat your family, friends,
or group of up to 50 people
to a night with the stars!

_______________

Calendar of Upcoming Events

What's Up in the Night Sky

Join our email list for updates

Check out our Facebook page

Weather Forecast

Please refresh your browser to update chart.
Click on chart for detailed explanation.

Sugarloaf Ridge
State Park

"Team Sugarloaf" operates Sugarloaf Ridge,
including the campground. Five nonprofit organizations formed a unique partnership that has worked tirelessly to keep our park open.

Partners are: Sonoma Ecology Center; United Camps, Conferences and Retreats; Valley of the Moon Natural History Association; Sonoma County Trails Council; and Valley of the Moon Observatory Association.

With expertise in campground operations, ecological restoration, astronomy, trails management, and volunteer recruiting and training, Team Sugarloaf is creating new opportunities for Sugarloaf Ridge and its visitors. Visit sugarloafpark.org for more information.

Come to stargaze and camp at Sugarloaf Ridge!