Public Star Parties are the heart of the Robert Ferguson Observatory—your monthly invitation to experience the wonder of the night sky like never before. Whether you’re a lifelong astronomy enthusiast or simply curious about what lies beyond our planet, these gatherings offer something magical for everyone.

Each month includes a variety of engaging astronomy presentations led by our expert docents. You’ll hear fascinating stories about the cosmos and the science behind some of the objects you’ll soon be observing. These talks set the stage for an unforgettable night under the stars.

Step outside into the darkness of Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, where the skies open up in breathtaking clarity. You’ll have the chance to explore the universe through three of RFO’s massive telescopes, each powerful enough to reveal extraordinary detail: lunar craters, planets, star clusters, glowing nebulae, distant galaxies, and more. In addition, a field of smaller telescopes brought and operated by dedicated volunteers, creates a dynamic, community-powered observing experience.

Every month offers a new selection of celestial treasures, and our friendly, knowledgeable docents are excited to guide you. They’ll help you navigate the night sky, answer questions, and point out objects that many people never get the chance to see.

Come experience the excitement, curiosity, and shared sense of discovery that make Public Star Parties such a cherished RFO tradition. Free for members—and unforgettable for everyone!

Our monthly star parties each month have different start times, depending on sunset, and each run about three hours. here are the following star party dates for the rest of the year:

May 16th at 8:30 pm
June 13th at 9:00 pm
July 11th at 9:00 pm
August 15th at 9:00 pm
September 5th at 8:00 pm
September 19th at 8:00 pm
October 10th at 7:00 pm
November 7th at 7:00 pm
November 27th at 7:00 pm

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