Observatory Features Jupiter and Double Stars
The ذكذكتسئµ Observatory opens to the public Friday, April 17, after 7:30 p.m. for a night of stargazing that will feature views of Jupiter and the star pair Mizar and Alcor. The event is expected to last several hours.
Mizar and Alcor, located in the handle of the Big Dipper, are two pairs of double stars. Historically, they were used as an ancient eye test to determine visual acuity.
ذكذكتسئµ hosts these free viewings on the third Friday of every month, beginning at sunset. In addition to the college’s powerful Keck Telescope, members of the will bring their own telescopes to share with the community.
Free parking is available near the observatory, which is located between the baseball field and the track and soccer complex. To enter campus, visitors should use the main entrance off La Paz Road. The lower entrance off Cold Spring Road closes to the public after 7 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, please call the Telescope Viewing Hotline at (805) 565-6272 or check the observatory website to see if the viewing has been canceled.
Here is a map with directions to get to the observatory.