The Universe is Here
for You!

The Cocoon nebula, photographed by docent Steve Smith using RFO's robotic telescope (more images).

Benefit Hike for Sugarloaf
Saturday, February 18, 9:45am to 1:30pm
Help Team Sugarloaf open and operate Sugarloaf Ridge State Park—join Dave Chalk and Bill Myers for a special benefit hike to visit some of the best places in the park—the waterfall of Sonoma Creek, the hillside forest and vistas of the Pony Creek Trail and more. Naturalists from the Sonoma Ecology Center will be on hand to share stories about why our park is so special.
Donation of $25 includes hike, observatory solar viewing with tour and refreshments. Donation is tax deductible. Make checks payable to "Sugarloaf."
Bring sturdy shoes, layers of clothing and a picnic lunch. We'll hike rain or shine! There may be an $8 State Park parking fee.
Thank you for helping us keep our park open!

---

The Robert Ferguson Oservatory (RFO) is open to the public at least once a month, usually on a Saturday near the time of the New Moon (see schedule at left).

Daytime Solar: Solar telescopes are set up so you can safely look at and listen to our favorite star, the Sun.

Star Parties: Starting at dusk, the Observatory's three main telescopes are open for your viewing. Docents set up additional telescopes in front of the building, while presentations on astronomical topics are given in the classroom throughout the course of the evening. Friendly and knowledgeable docents are available to answer your questions.

FAQs:

1. Map and Directions
   
2. When to arrive: We keep the observatory open as long as there are visitors, but you must arrive before 11 PM in Summer, 10 PM in Winter, to insure that we remain open for you.
3. Bring warm clothing, even in summer—observing is done outdoors.
   
4. There is a short walk from the parking area to the Observatory and you may wish to bring a flashlight.
   
5. White light is strongly discouraged (it negatively affects your nighttime vision). Docents will provide you with red cellophane to cover your flashlight.

Classroom presentations are always offered on Star Party nights even if the weather is poor. For current conditions call the observatory at 707/833-6979.

 

The Robert Ferguson Observatory: Both peaked roofs roll back to reveal the telescopes inside. The dome opens and revolves with its telescope. The tall poles attached to the sides of the building are part of RFO's radio astronomy set-up that allows us to listen to the Sun. Photo: Mark Hillestad

Back to top of page