{"id":2649,"date":"2024-11-15T23:26:31","date_gmt":"2024-11-16T07:26:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rfo.org\/?page_id=2649"},"modified":"2026-04-02T21:49:07","modified_gmt":"2026-04-03T04:49:07","slug":"family-day","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/rfo.org\/index.php\/family-day\/","title":{"rendered":"Family Day"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Bring the whole family for a day filled with fun, exploration, and discovery at the Robert Ferguson Observatory! <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

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Event Overview:<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

This program is designed specifically for families with children ages 12 and under, and is sure to spark curiosity and excitement for all ages. We will be doing several special activities that will teach children about our solar system and our nearest star, the sun! Activities offered are subject to change, but generally include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Interactive Family Presentation<\/strong>
    Engaging, family-friendly presentations about our solar system and beyond! The hands-on talk, led by our friendly astronomers, will introduce young minds to the wonders of space in a way that’s easy to understand. Kids will learn fascinating facts about the planets, stars, and galaxies, with plenty of time for questions and participation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Solar Observing<\/strong>
    Safely observe our closest star\u2014the Sun! Using specialized solar telescopes, families can witness sunspots, solar flares, and other fascinating features on the Sun\u2019s surface. Our guides will explain what you\u2019re seeing and answer questions to make solar observing a truly memorable experience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Rocket Launch Activity<\/strong>
    Ready to launch? Join us for a hands-on rocket-building and launching activity! Children can craft their own small paper rockets and then see how far they can fly. This activity will introduce young space enthusiasts to the principles of rocket science and inspire budding engineers and astronauts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Planet Walk Hike<\/strong>
    Participate in an easy, family-friendly hike on Sugarloaf Ridge State Park\u2019s scenic Planet Walk trail. This guided tour includes fun facts about the planets in our solar system and gives families a sense of the true scale of space. Along the way, our guides will encourage kids to imagine what it would be like to travel from planet to planet!<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Join us for a stellar day of family fun, science, and adventure at the Observatory!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Where:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    At The Robert Ferguson Observatory (map<\/a>). 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 program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    When:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Programs are listed on our events calendar<\/a> and tickets may be purchased at rfo.simpletix.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n