Focus Nights

Have you ever wondered what’s really out there in the night sky? Wished you could zoom in on cosmic marvels? What if you had a handful of astronomers at your elbow, showing the way, answering your questions in plain language?

That’s a Focus Night at the Robert Ferguson Observatory!

What:

We limit these family-friendly events to 40 people so attendees get plenty of scope time, have a chance to ask questions and talk to our experienced docents, and learn about the astronomical object that is the focus of the event. We purposely schedule Focus Nights when the astronomical object we are targeting is close and visible in the night sky. Themes can vary and have included Saturn, Mars, Jupiter, the Moon, Venus, the Perseids meteor shower, the Lyrid meteor shower, and more.

The program starts with a presentation to learn about the different features of the astronomical object being focused on and how to best view them through the telescopes (if applicable). After the detailed presentation it is off to the telescopes to view the object(s) for a deeper exploration, as well as other interesting objects, time and weather permitting. Observing will be done with RFO’s three main telescopes – an 8″ refractor, a 40″ reflector, and an RC20 20″ CCD telescope. As always, the observatory will be staffed by knowledgeable and enthusiastic volunteers eager to show you the night sights, and answer any questions you may have.

Poor weather does not cancel these events, but participants are welcome to come back for a star party for free if weather precludes them from viewing through the telescopes the night of the Focus Night.

Where:

At The Robert Ferguson Observatory (map). Park in the gravel area near the horse corrals just outside the gate to the Group Camp/Observatory site. You do not need to pay the park day use fee to attend the class.

When:

Classes are listed on our events calendar and tickets may be purchased at rfo.simpletix.com.