Meetups

Upcoming skywatch gatherings

Our meetup calendar is shared as practical session previews so members can quickly plan what to observe and when to arrive.

Read preparation notes

  1. Late OctoberEarly evening

    First-Quarter Moon Sidewalk Session

    A calm public setup focused on lunar craters, terminator shadows, and easy binocular comparisons for new observers.

  2. Mid NovemberNight session

    Constellation Walk: Pegasus to Andromeda

    Guided sky tracing from the Great Square through nearby marker stars, with simple orientation tips for repeat viewing.

  3. Early DecemberWeekend twilight

    Beginner Telescope Night at Riverside Field

    Hands-on alignment help and short rotation groups for Jupiter, bright double stars, and winter sky warm-up targets.

Weather note: final timing is confirmed about 24 hours before each meetup, with cloud cover and visibility updates posted to the Meetups page.

Featured club gathering

Next Skywatch: Moonlit Craters & Autumn Constellations

Join us for a relaxed, guided evening where members compare lunar crater views, trace seasonal constellations, and share practical observing tips under local skies.

Thursday Evening Field Session

No registration is required. Arrive when you can, settle in with the group, and follow the rotating telescope stations at your own pace.

Date & time
Oct 22, 2026 · 7:15 PM–9:45 PM
Meet point
Ridgeview Park, north lawn near the observatory sign
Sky focus
First-quarter Moon, Andromeda, Cassiopeia
Weather plan
If cloud cover is high, we switch to an indoor star-map walkthrough
Join The Next Meetup

Meetup details FAQ

Quick answers before you join us

Everything here is designed to keep attendance simple, welcoming, and low-pressure.

What happens if the weather changes?

If clouds or rain move in, we post updates before start time and switch to a short indoor sky talk or reschedule when needed.

Do I need my own telescope or special equipment?

No equipment is required. Bring warm layers and curiosity; club members share telescopes and help everyone get a clear first view.

Is it okay to attend if I am a complete beginner?

Absolutely. Many attendees are new to skywatching, and we explain each target in plain language before observing.

When should I arrive, and how long do meetups run?

Try to arrive 10–15 minutes early for check-in and setup. Most sessions run about 90 minutes, with flexibility for weather and visibility.

What observing etiquette should I follow at night?

Use dim red light if possible, keep phone brightness low, and take turns at each telescope so everyone can observe comfortably.