GENERAL EVENT INFORMATION
When are you open?
We are only open on nights where we have a scheduled event.
How long do events last and when should I arrive?
This depends on the event. Public star parties last for three hours and visitors can come anytime during that time frame, although we do ask that you arrive at least an hour before we close to get the most out of your experience. Most visitors stay for one to two hours. We suggest families with children arrive close to the start time, and others arrive an hour or so later to minimize wait times at the telescopes. The majority of other programs have a specific start time and we ask that you arrive on time. We generally open doors about 15 minutes before the start time. If you arrive earlier for an event, we kindly ask that you wait in the parking area until doors open so you do not disrupt the docents who are setting up the event.
Do I need to print out my SimpleTix ticket?
No, you do not need to print out your ticket. We will already have you on the list and will check you in by your last name when you arrive.
Can I obtain a refund or reschedule our ticket if we can no longer attend?
Unfortunately we cannot accommodate refunds or reschedule requests. Any events that have to be cancelled due to weather, air quality, or other conditions will be refunded and visitors will be notified via email. Because of this policy, and because we need to limit the attendance for most programs based on the available space, we kindly ask that you ensure you can attend a program before purchasing tickets. We do allow you to gift or sell your tickets to another person if you cannot attend.
Are children allowed at events?
Absolutely! The observatory welcomes guests of all ages and encourages youth to attend. Programs in the “All Ages” and “Youth Focused” categories are best for children. Those programs labeled “Beginner Friendly” can be suitable for youth that have an interest in space and astronomy and can sit quietly through a lecture up to an hour long. Programs labeled “Advanced,” are generally not suited for children. Please note that most programs occur on very dark nights and children must be supervised at all times to ensure safety and proper use of equipment.
Can I bring my dog/pet to the observatory?
We kindly ask that you do not bring animals into the observatory unless they are a service animal. Leashes can be hazardous to equipment and other people in the telescope rooms which are very dark during an event. Not having animals present also reduces hair and allergens which can be detrimental to both people and the sensitive telescope equipment.
Who can I contact for additional questions?
For more information or other questions, please contact us at [email protected] our call us at 707-833-6979.
HOW TO PREPARE
What should I bring?
We ask our visitors to not have any flashlights, lanterns, or other lights that emit white light. Red lights are allowed. You may either bring your own, or we have small red flashlights available for purchase at the observatory. We also provide red cellophane to cover white light flashlights if desired.
Why is white light not allowed?
Red light is better for stargazing because it has minimal impact on your night vision, allowing your eyes to remain adapted to darkness, which is crucial for seeing faint stars. Unlike white light, red light doesn’t trigger the chemical changes in your eyes that significantly reduce your ability to see in low light conditions. When exposed to bright light, your eyes need time to adjust to darkness again, a process called dark adaptation. Red light disrupts this process much less than other colors, allowing you to see fainter stars.
Should I bring a chair?
Unless an event specifically states to bring a chair (like our “Bring Your Own Binoculars & Chair program), you will not need to bring any seating. Chairs are provided in our classroom for events that have presentations included, and the rest of the time you will be walking around to the different telescope rooms.
What should I wear?
Even in the summer months, it can get quite chilly on the mountain at night. Make sure to bring layers. A heavy coat, hat, and gloves are also recommended, especially in the colder months. We also sell disposable hand warmers in our gift shop. Please note that there is also a short walk from the parking area to the observatory, partly on gravel. Good walking shoes are recommended.
ACCESS
Where should I park and how far is the walk to the observatory?
For most events you will park near the white barn parking lot, a short walk (less than a quarter mile) from the observatory. You may wish to bring a small red light flashlight or purchase one when booking your tickets. If you purchase a flashlight ahead of time it will be available for you when you check in. We do have handicapped parking spaces available right next to the observatory for those visitors with limited mobility.
Is there anything I need to know regarding accessibility?
The Observatory building is accessible with ramps. Restrooms are accessible. The classroom presentation and observing with both the 40″ telescope and the 20″ CCD telescope are accessible. The 8″ telescope in our dome wing must be used while standing. Handicap parking spots are available next to the observatory. If any other special accommodations are required for your visit, please inform us ahead of time.
Are there any discounts for low-income families?
RFO is a proud participant in the Museums for All initiative, a collaboration with the Institute of Museum and Library Services to offer access to the observatory with free admission to our public star parties. Guests with an EBT card can present it at the entrance for free admission up to four guests (two adults, two children), including the guest. Parking fees for attending the public star party will also be waived. Number of available tickets are limited per event and visitors must still pre-register at rfo.simpletix.com.
TELESCOPES
Can I bring my own telescope to a public star party or other public event?
We allow members of the public to bring their own telescope to a public star party if 1) they agree to let other visitors look through their telescope, 2) they sign a liability release form, and 3) they agree to come early to set up before the event and stay for the duration of the event to minimize cars and lights coming up and down the road during the star party. We do not allow bringing personal telescopes to other events, other than Public Star Parties and Bring Your Own Telescope classes. Please sign and bring the liability waiver below.
WEATHER CONSIDERATIONS
Does inclement weather cancel an event?
Not necessarily – it depends on the event. Some programs, such as Observing Labs and Bring Your Own Telescope classes, need clear skies to function, and will be cancelled with cloudy or rainy weather. Visitors will be notified via email if this is the case. Other programs, such as public star parties, are not cancelled by cloudy skies. In the event of poor visibility, guests are treated to an educational experience, learning the differences between telescopes and how they work, and presentations will be given throughout the evening. Visitors are also shown archived images from our RC20, research-grade CCD telescope. If you do not receive an email, the event is not cancelled.