Event

Foothill Observatory is open for public viewing every clear Saturday morning from 10:00 a.m. until noon. Visitors to these daytime programs can view details of the sun through our special eyesafe solar filters. We are able to provide spectacular views through both white-light and hydrogen-alpha (0.6 Angstrom) filters. Visitors can inspect two different layers of the sun - the photosphere and the chromosphere. Depending on solar activity, guests will see sunspots (giant cooler areas on the sun's surface), solar prominences (huge flame-like eruptions), and solar flares (titanic explosions).  There is even the chance to telescopically view well-placed planets despite the daylight.
The public viewing programs at Foothill are free of charge and are open to guests of all ages.  Please note that the observatory is closed when the weather is cloudy.  Check our webcam at:   http://www.pastro.org/dnn/Observatory/FoothillWebcam.aspx 
Visitor parking permits are available from the machines in the parking lots for $3.00.  Best to park in Lot #4 near the Observatory.

Foothill Observatory Saturday Solar Observing Program

Date: Saturday, August 17, 2019

Time: 10 a.m. - noon Pacific

Location: Foothill College Observatory
12345 El Monte Road
Los Altos, CA

Information for Visitors

Location Details

Foothill College Observatory
Observatory located on the Foothill Community College campus. 16" telescope, h-alpha and white light solar telescopes.

Notes:
Park in lot 4 next to the observatory, or if lot 4 is full, park in lot 3 and walk up the hill to the observatory. Space in lot 4 may be limited.
Parking costs $3; do not park in spaces marked "Staff".