Public Viewing
An important part of NOVAC has always been sharing our knowledge of space. Many of our members are avid astronomers and are impassioned astro-hobbyists. Each year, we hold several public observing sessions–including the annual Star Gaze–to introduce people to NOVAC and the wonders of astronomy. We’d love to see you there!
You do not need to be a member of the club or own any astronomical equipment to attend. All you need is an interest in the wonders of the cosmos. We welcome all ages, though children under 18 who attend an event must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Getting Ready
Preparation begins before leaving home. Dress warmly! Summer nights can grow cold. Please check the weather forecast.
For lighting, cover a flashlight in red cellophane (darker the better). Bring along water to keep hydrated and plan on staying the entire evening or as long as the weather allows. Please dim your vehicle’s headlights when arriving and departing.
Be sure to check back with our website prior to leaving for an event. If it’s cancelled, there will be a notice prominently displayed on the homepage News or the calendar events.
Club members will begin to arrive just prior to sunset. We recommend also arriving before dark, but please check each event for specific details for arrival.
Feel free to walk around and enjoy the sights. There will be equipment on display you may use with permission from the owner. It’s best to closely monitor children around expensive astronomical equipment. Also, telescope mirrors are sensitive to cigarette smoke and bug spray. Pets should not be brought onto the observing field.
For more information on NOVAC outreach, check out this page. If you’re looking to host an event, please fill out this outreach request form or contact the NOVAC Outreach Coordinator at: outreach@novac.com
Please Note: NOVAC outreach events will generally be held on one of our scheduled public viewing events. Weather conditions may cause last minute cancellations, so check out the calendar for event status before you head out.