Click here for the full schedule of Public Astronomy Nights.

Important Telescope Policy: 

Only Mount Diablo Astronomical Society (MDAS) members who are certified as California State Park Volunteers-in-Parks (VIPP) docents are authorized to bring telescopes to our Public Astronomy events. These trained members will be set up to share breathtaking views of the universe with the public.  For the safety of all guests and to comply with California State Park regulations, telescope viewing operations are strictly limited to authorized members with active VIPP certification. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us keep our events safe and enjoyable for everyone, and for respecting these guidelines so we can continue hosting public viewings.

Be Prepared:

The temperature on the mountain can drop considerably during the evening, so dress warmly. Bring water and flashlights with redlight capability so as not to disrupt the telescope viewing

NO PETS
NO SMOKING
NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
Please no running or rough housing around the telescopes

Getting to the Lower Summit Parking Lot:

You may enter Mount Diablo State Park by either the North or South Gate entrances.  Expect it to take 35-40 minutes from the park boundary to reach the lower summit parking lot. You will need to present your California State Parks Pass or pay the daily entrance fee.

Obey the speed limit 
Take care when passing bicycles.  Do not pass on blind corners.

Keep in mind that this is a state park and, as such, park rules apply https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=517

The Public Astronomy program:

The program begins with an engaging educational presentation before sunset, followed by enjoying the famous views, sunset, and Belt of Venus, culminating in telescope viewing under the night sky.

Visitors will be escorted off the mountain in groups only (typically every 30-60 minutes after the telescope viewing commences at dark.) Do not leave without an escort- the gate at the bottom will be locked and can only be unlocked by the escort. Departure will be by way of the North Gate ONLY (Walnut Creek)

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 or check https://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/Mount-Diablo/forecasts/1173

SUMMIT LIVE CAMERAS:
https://alertca.live/cam-console/2156