Stellar Vista Observatory hosts monthly star parties that are free and open to the public. Our goal is to create opportunities for families, friends, and individuals to learn together and marvel at the beauty of the night sky. Our passionate volunteer astronomers are on hand to guide you through a fascinating journey of discovery.
We always have telescopes and binoculars set up to help you get great views of the cosmos. If you own a telescope, feel free to arrive early and set it up. If you’d like to learn how to use your telescope more effectively, just let us know, and we will gladly assist you!
Not sure what to bring to the star party? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Upcoming Star Parties
| Date | Description | Location | Start Time* | Backup Date |
| July 20, 2024 | Venus, Mercury and Regulus set while the full moon rises! | Jackson Flat Reservoir | 8:30 pm | |
| August 5, 2024 | For Early Risers! Mars, Jupiter and the red giant star Aldebaran form a lovely triangle in the morning sky! | Jackson Flat Reservoir | 4:00am to 5:00am | |
| August 9, 2025 | The Crescent Moon meets the alpha star Spika in Virgo, while Venus sets! | Jackson Flat Reservoir | 8:30 pm | |
| August 11, 2025 | Meteor Shower Star Party: Peak of the Perseids! | The Nomad Cafe & Campground | 9:00 pm to midnight | August 12, 2024 |
| September 27, 2024 | The dazzling constellations of Scorpius and Sagittarius cradling the Butterfly and Ptolemy Clusters are the “stars” of the late summer sky while Saturn makes its return! | Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park | 8:00pm | September 28, 2024 |
| October 25, 2024 | Behold the Andromeda Galaxy, Saturn, and the Perseus Star Clusters from a lovely dark location! | Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park | 7:30pm | October 26, 2024 |
** Events at the State Park carry a fee of $5/vehicle
If you would like to schedule a Night Sky Experience on a date other than our public star parties, click here to reserve a private Night Sky Experience.
