PUBLIC OBSERVING
Our Observatory is open to the public every clear Saturday night from 1 hour after sunset and continuing for 2 hours, April through November. Usually experienced members are available during these Saturday sessions and will be glad to assist you with your telescope if you bring one.
GROUPS & STAR PARTIES
The Fort Wayne Astronomical Society is dedicated to public education in Astronomy. Club members volunteer their time, talents, and equipment in community service to share the heavens with school children, scout groups, church groups, and the general public at prearranged observing sessions and lectures. In order to help us continue this service to the community and make the learning experience more enjoyable for everyone, we use the following guidelines regarding the scheduling of these programs.
Fox Island programs: The Society can give approximately 1-1/2 hour observing sessions or lectures at our Fox Island Observatory for groups of 10 or more, given 2 weeks notice. Groups of less than 10 may simply come out to Fox Island for observing on any clear Saturday night, April through November, without notice.
Traveling programs: The Society can also provide a 1 hour observing session or lecture within a radius of 30 miles from Fort Wayne, given 4 weeks notice. We reserve Saturday nights for activities at our Fox Island Observatory.
Fees: There is no charge, although any donations to help us maintain our telescope and observatory have been greatly appreciated.
Age: The minimum age we recommend for the group itself is 9, or students in the 3rd grade, although younger siblings and friends may accompany them.
Conduct: Due to the somewhat fragile nature of the telescopes we ask that children not be allowed to run around them, throw stones, or handle the equipment unless instructed. To ensure adequate supervision we request no fewer than 1 adult for every 6 children that attend.
Scheduling is made on a first-come-first-served basis.
To schedule a program for your group you may
contact the Observatory Director, Chris Highlen by E-Mail