Starry Nights Star Party

Join the San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA) and Santa Clara County Open Space Authority (OSA) for an unforgettable night of exploring the night sky. Our knowledgeable docents, members of SJAA, will be your guides to providing valuable insights into the wonders of our universe. The viewing site, Rancho Canada del Oro Open Space Preserve, is just 30 minutes south of downtown San Jose, and features darker skies than viewing from the city. It's dark enough to see the band of our Milky Way galaxy during the Summer months.

Gather with fellow space fans for an evening under the stars as we set up telescopes for an up-close experience viewing interesting objects in the nighttime sky. Connect with amateur astronomers and space enthusiasts to share in the excitement of observing the night sky in all its splendor. You may even see a meteor or satellite passing overhead. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn more about the heavens above or a seasoned stargazer seeking to deepen your knowledge, this event promises to spark curiosity and awe for the wonders of our cosmic backyard. Come join us for a star party that will leave you inspired by the beauty and science of astronomy.

THIS ACTIVITY REQUIRES REGISTRATION.

Registration for this event has a limit of approximately 85 people due to available parking space at the observing site.

If you register and then cannot attend this event, please remove your reservation, so that those on the waiting list can fill open spots.

If you are wait listed, please check back closer to the event start time to see whether you managed to get a slot that opened up.

Arrive no later than 1 hour prior to the ending time as the gates may be closed to allow Staff to prepare to wrap up the session.

After parking, please sign in at the OSA's front table and let them know you are here.

Only those registered will be allowed entry. Each entry registration is for one car. For example, if you have four people in a car, just one registration is required for your group.

The OSA is making this viewing site available for visual observing only. There are separate SJAA-sponsored astro-imaging events (see http://www.Meetup.com/SJ-Astronomy).

Some things to keep in mind:
· Do not bring your own telescope (binoculars are welcome, but please no tripods).
· This is a family friendly event, and although younger children are welcome, this activity is best suited for children aged 5 years and older.
· No touching the telescopes or eyepieces. (Maybe a focus knob, if instructed by the astronomer. It’s OK to ask).
· Dress in warm layers (it gets cold at night).
· Flashlights: To help preserve everyone's night vision, if you bring a dim white flashlight, be sure to have it wrapped in red plastic, or get it wrapped at the sign-in desk.
· Rain, heavy clouds, or thick smoke will result in cancellation of the event.
· Please check this page prior to heading to the event for latest information, such as late changes due to weather.
· No smoking and no pets.
· No flash photography.

Thank you for your interest in this event. We'll see you under the stars!!