GO INSIDE A TELESCOPE:

How do telescopes work?  Take an inside look and learn about 400-year-old technology still in use today!

Then as it gets dark, enjoy views of the universe through many telescopes!

Date: Saturday, 10/20/2012

Time: 5:30 PM - 11:00 PM Pacific

Location: Mount Diablo - Lower Summit Parking Lot, Summit Rd, Clayton, CA 94517

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  • Sunset Image
    Sunset: 6:24 PM
  • Waxing Crescent
    Moon
  • Sky Chart - click to enlarge
    What's in the Sky this evening?

Information for Visitors:
EXCITEMENT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Participate in hands-on astronomy activities followed by supervised observing through the many different telescopes of MDAS members.

Bring snacks, water, binoculars, and warm clothes. If you bring a flashlight please cover it with red material.

Please note that only Mt. Diablo Astronomy Docents may set up telescopes on Public Nights.

Location Details

Mount Diablo - Lower Summit Parking Lot
Lower Summit Parking Lot off Summit Road - almost to the top of Mount Diablo

Summit Rd

Clayton, CA 94517

get directions

check weather forecast

check clear sky chart

Click here for schedule of 2024 Public Astronomy Nights

Notes:
Click here for the full schedule of Public Astronomy Nights.

The park gates close around sunset, so be certain to arrive in plenty of time.
The temperature on the mountain can drop considerably during the evening, so dress warmly. Keep in mind that this is a state park and, as such, park rules apply, including any gate fees.

Two or three times during the session, visitors will be escorted off the mountain in groups. Departure will be by way of the North Gate (this becomes Oak Grove Road in Walnut Creek once you are outside the confines of the park.)

Events are only canceled due to rain or fire hazard. Don't be put off by somewhat overcast skies. Often, when it is overcast in the late afternoon, by the time night arrives on the mountain viewing is fine.

If you would like advice on current conditions, you can usually reach a person in the South Gate kiosk until sunset at (925) 837-0904. For more information, call the Mt. Diablo "Hotline": (925) 837-2525

UPCOMING EVENTS