July Moon Madness -- Bare Dark Sky Observatory

Information, Terms & Conditions:

Join the Bare Dark Sky Observatory Space Rangers as they lead a Moongazing astronomy night focused on the Moon! View the Moon craters close up through difference size eye pieces and colored lens in our 34" mirrored Neutonian "Sam" Scope and our 14' mirrored Meade. Hear folk tales, legends, and myths as we enjoy a half full Moon. Depending on the Moon's brightness, we may still be able to view incredible constellations, their brightest stars, satellites, meteors, some deep sky objects, and even some planets! With the assistance of our Observatory hosts, up to 22 people will learn lots of astronomy fun facts. Learn about Moon journaling, discuss what life on Earth would be like without our Moon, and so much more.

The event takes place in open air, so dress appropriately, bring a blanket, and prepare for some cool night temperatures. There are no water fountains at the observatory so bringing bottled water is encouraged. Closed toed shoes and a flashlight are also highly recommended. There is a clean and sanitized porta john located at our parking lot.

For the safety of our staff, our guests, and your pet, the Bare Dark Sky Observatory has a NO PETS policy. If you have a registered service dog that you need to bring to a stargazing event, please contact a staff member at the Earth to Sky Visitor's Center prior to coming to the event to make special arrangements.

Upon arrival to the parking lot at the base of the hill to the Observatory, be prepared to walk approximately 200 feet up a inclined path with steps to reach the Observatory. There is one handicap parking space that is close to the building with a ramp up to the Observatory. To be able to look through our Sam Scope you must be able to climb 3 to 4 steps up a 10 foot rolling ladder. You will be outside the entire viewing time.

Inclement Weather Policy: With the opening of the Glenn and Carol Arthur Planetarium, we can now offer an alternative two-hour astronomy experience option on evenings the Observatory is unavailable due to weather conditions. If the weather forecast is not favorable for outdoor stargazing, we will send out an email the day before to inform you that the astronomy event has been moved into the planetarium. Please plan to arrive at the Arthur Planetarium ten to fifteen minutes prior to event time.

Please note that you will be at the Observatory and Earth to Sky Park at your own risk and will hold Mayland Community College, and the Mayland Community College Foundation harmless in the event of an incident. Mayland Community College is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged articles. Please use caution as the terrain is uneven.

COVID NOTE: Please check the www.mayland.edu/observatory for the latest Covid mask mandate. We will provide masks for those in need.

For information regarding our planetarium days, hours, tickets, and topics, please go to: mayland.edu/planetarium.

Thank you ...and Keep Looking UP!

Your Space Ranger Hosts