Public Star Party – July 18, 2026

Dozens of telescopes fill the Observatory lawn during this monthly, explicitly family-friendly observing event. Visitors can safely observe the Sun during daylight and, as conditions permit, look for the Moon, visible planets, and other celestial objects after dark. Families may try different telescopes and ask experienced amateur astronomers about the sky and their equipment.

Volunteer support comes from the Los Angeles Astronomical Society, Los Angeles Sidewalk Astronomers, and The Planetary Society. Telescope operators may close individual lines early enough to finish all viewing by 9:45 p.m.; the Observatory building closes separately at 10:00 p.m.

Guests may not set up private, unauthorized telescopes on Observatory grounds.