RSVP here.

Members of the public are invited to view the wonders of the universe through the telescopes of NOVAC volunteers. You do not need to be a member of the club or own any astronomical equipment to attend.

From 5pm until sunset you can inspect different telescopes and other visual equipment on the field. Have a cosmic question? One of our astronomers will be happy to help you. After sunset be prepared to enjoy the wonders of the night sky!

Masks are required. Dress warmly! Please check the weather forecast.

For lighting, cover a flashlight in red cellophane (the darker the better). Bring along water to keep hydrated and plan on staying the entire evening or as long as the weather allows. Feel free to walk around and the different telescopes on display but please ask the owner before using. Please monitor your children around expensive astronomical equipment. Remember, telescope mirrors are sensitive to cigarette smoke and bug spray. Finally, pets should not be brought onto the observing field unless they are service animals.

Note: This event is weather-dependent and may be cancelled because of significant cloud cover or precipitation.

See front page of NOVAC Site for changes to event. More information about Great Meadow including directions and parking visit the Great Meadow Site page.

Join NOVAC and the Rappahannock County Park for a public observing session.

Audience: Members of the public, astronomy club members. Feel free to bring along any friends and family.

Volunteer Role: Bring binoculars or a telescope to share views of the planet Mars, galaxies and other deep sky objects.

Presentations:

•  NOVAC member will p a 15-minute presentation by NOVAC member on how to find Mars, the M-44 beehive cluster and the M-104 Sombrero Galaxy in Virgo.
• short educational presentation put on by the Park stressing the value of maintaining a light pollution free environment.

Masks: 

• not mandatory before dark unless social distancing cannot be maintained.
• required after dark.

Contact: RSVP to Torney Van Acker, Dark Sky Coordinator, at 703-250-7943 or torney630@gmail.com.

NOVAC supports this event by providing remote telescope viewing capabilities to visitors in order to ensure safe social distancing.

• Sky Meadows State Park (11012 Edmonds Ln.), behind the Mount Bleak House within the white fence.
• Participation will be limited to 100 people (including staff and volunteers).
• Social distancing is required and face masks are strongly encouraged.

Please visit the official website for more details.