HYBRID – General Meeting – July 2024
2024-07-05 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Phoenix) | Steward Observatory Lecture Hall (Room N210), 933 N Cherry Ave, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
Presentation: SHARK-VIS Ushers In A New Age of Planetary Imaging
Since Voyager images in 1979 revealed volcanic activity on Jupiter’s moon Io, (the most volcanically active world in our solar system), Io’s surface has been monitored by both spacecraft and ground-based telescopes. In his presentation, scientist Al Conrad presents the highest resolution images of Io ever obtained from a ground-based telescope. Taken by the Large Binocular Telescope’s new instrument, SHARK-VIS, they show evidence of a recent major resurfacing event on Io, and usher in a new age of planetary imaging by using adaptive optics at optical wavelengths. Scientists hope monitoring Io’s eruptions will shed light on the tidal heating mechanism responsible for Io’s intense volcanism, and, according to Conrad, “Io, therefore presents a unique opportunity to learn about the mighty eruptions that helped shape the surfaces of the Earth and the moon in their distant pasts.”

Bio: Dr. Al Conrad, associate staff scientist at the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) received his PhD in Computer Science from the University of California at Santa Cruz in 1994. Before joining LBT in 2014, he worked as a software engineer and support astronomer at both Lick and Keck Observatories, then at Max Planck Institute for Astronomy, where he led the development of the adaptive optics system for LINC-NIRVANA (near- infrared imaging instrument). At LBT, Al has served as the point of contact for commissioning of several instruments. His current duties include the science archive, SHARK-NIR (infra-red instrument), SHARK-VIS, and others. His research interests include asteroid systems and developing novel techniques to study comets, planets, and the moons of planets, in particular Jupiter’s moon Io. He enjoys cycling, sailing, and outrigger canoe paddling.

Jupiter’s moon Io imaged by SHARK-VIS on Jan. 10, 2024

ONLINE – Astronomy Fundamentals Meeting – July 2024
2024-07-11 18:30 - 20:00 | ONLINE
Main Presentation: Cosmic Microwave Background
Presenter: Connor Justice
Connor Justice will be presenting on the history behind the Cosmic Microwave Background.

HYBRID – General Meeting – August 2024
2024-08-02 18:30 - 20:00 | Steward Observatory Lecture Hall (Room N210), 933 N Cherry Ave, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
Presentation 1: Observing The Fall Sky

Mary Turner presents her popular seasonal talk about what to see in the summer night sky, as well as fascinating myths and facts about each object. Learn about bright planets, meteor showers, and all else accessible, to the naked eye, binoculars, and/or telescopes.

Bio: Dr. Mary Turner received her Ph.D in Optical Sciences at the University of Arizona (UA). She is currently the Technical Fellow in Optical Design for Edmund Optics, where she designs custom optical systems for a wide variety of applications, including camera systems, machine vision applications, free-space communications and other laser systems. Additionally. Dr. Turner is a lecturer for the University of California-Irvine, teaching courses in optical design. She also lectures at UA in various aspects of optical design, and has authored chapters in several technical references relating to the field of optical design.

Presentation 2: A History of the Grand Canyon Star Party

TAAA member Jim Knoll will review the history of the Grand Canyon Star Party, from its humble beginning by a dedicated member of the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (TAAA) to the premiere outreach event it is today. Grand Canyon National Park is a perfect location as a Dark Sky Park at 7,000 feet with incredible views of the Milky Way and the rest of our Universe. The Star Party is co-hosted by TAAA and the National Park Service. It is held annually in June, near the New Moon, and is free and open to everyone in the Park. We typically set up between 50 and 60 telescopes and provide daytime and nighttime observing over 8 days and nights, with around 125 volunteers. GCSP draws over 15,000 visitors yearly. The 2024 Star Party was the 34th in the series. The 35th Grand Canyon Star Party will be held June 21-28, 2025. Additional information: https://tucsonastronomy.org/upcoming-events/grand-canyon-star-party/.

Bio: Jim Knoll joined the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association in 2004. Since that time, he has been involved in many TAAA activities, particularly outreach events. He has been the School Program Coordinator, and is currently the Coordinator for Tucson Stargazing Adventures (paid star parties). Jim is also the Chiricahua Astronomy Complex Director, the Library Telescope Coordinator, and most recently assumed the role of Coordinator for the annual Grand Canyon Star Party (GCSP). As GCSP Coordinator, he oversees a planning team of several TAAA members to orchestrate the yearly event in conjunction with the National Park Service.

Caption: Over 1,200 visitors a night at GCSP, 2018 / Credit: Dean Ketelsen

ONLINE – Astronomy Fundamentals Meeting – August 2024
2024-08-08 18:30 - 20:00 | ONLINE
Main Presentation: Supernovae
Presenter: Connor Justice
This month for our main topic, we will be revisiting a 2019 presentation on Supernovae.
Constellation of the Month: Pegasus
We will also be revisiting the Constellation Pegasus, to give some observation ideas for the Fall once monsoon season breaks.

HYBRID – General Meeting – September 2024
2024-09-06 18:30 - 20:00 | Steward Observatory Lecture Hall (Room N210), 933 N Cherry Ave, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
Presentation: My Deep-Sky Astrophotography Journey

TAAA member David Stearn shares his journey into Deep-Sky Astrophotography, showcasing his transition from landscape and nature photography to capturing the wonders of the cosmos. This presentation is perfect for visual astronomers interested in exploring the world of imaging, as well as for seasoned astrophotographers looking to learn new techniques. David will cover his beginnings, his advanced astro rig, and his expertise in capturing deep-sky objects, sharing valuable insights on imaging capture techniques, workflow, and image processing.

Bio: David Stearn is an Amateur Deep Space Photographer. He holds a BS Degree in Marketing from Northern Illinois University, and has been an amateur photographer for 20 years. With a background in landscape and nature photography, David has transitioned his skills and passions to astrophotography, leveraging his skills to capture stunning deep-sky objects. He is excited to share his journey and techniques with the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association. David’s photo gallery can be found at https://www.astrobin.com/users/astronewbie/

Caption: The Triangulum Galaxy, also known as M33

Credit: David Stearn

Stargazing at Agua Caliente Park
2024-09-07 19:30 - 21:30 | Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E Roger Rd, Tucson, AZ, 85749, United States
Viewing Location: Bus Lanes @ North end of Parking Lot
Information: Great dark skies in Northeast Tucson. Star Party open to the Public. Cost: FREE.
Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have several telescopes for astronomical viewing. We will observe Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, Star Clusters and lots more. Great opportunity to look through a variety of telescopes.
Park gate may close before event end time, so arrive as close to start time as possible. Weather dependent.
For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook Events Page: (https://www.facebook.com/TucsonAstronomy/).
FREE but REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. go to: https://bit.ly/ticketsEE
These events fill up fast so recommend registering early.

ONLINE – Astronomy Fundamentals Meeting – September 2024
2024-09-12 18:30 - 20:00 | ONLINE
Main Presentation: Star Atlas
Presenter: Connor Justice
This month, Connor Justice will be re-presenting a 2019 presentation on Star Atlas.
Astronomer of the Month: Al-battani
Presenter: Pete Hermes
Pete Hermes will be highlighting the Middle Ages astronomer Al-battani.

Stargazing at Tumacacori National Historical Park
2024-09-13 19:30 - 21:30 | Tumacacori National Historical Park, 1891 E Frontage Rd, Tumacacori, AZ, 85640, United States
Join TAAA and the National Park Service for an evening of stargazing at Tumacacori National Historical Park . Address below.
The Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (TAAA) will have several telescopes with operators for astronomical viewing.
We will observe Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, Star Clusters and lots more. Great opportunity to look through a variety of telescopes.
Event is free but NPS admission fees apply.
Weather dependent, check back here prior to event for possible updates on day of event.

Stargazing at Oracle State Park
2024-09-14 19:30 - 21:30 | Oracle State Park, 3820 E Wildlife Dr., Oracle, AZ, 85623, United States
Viewing Location: Kannally Ranch House

Star Party telescope viewing (7:30 – 9:30pm)

Information: Great dark skies just north of Tucson at Oracle State Park.
3820 E Wildlife Dr., Oracle, AZ 85623
Star Party open to the Public. Admission fees for entrance into Oracle State Park apply.
Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have several telescopes for astronomical viewing. We will be observing the Moon + Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, and Star Clusters.
Great opportunity to look through a wide variety of telescopes. Weather dependent.
For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook event page: TAAA Facebook Events page
Also: Check the Oracle State Park website for additional information and activities that day:
Star Party at Oracle State Park | Oracle State Park (azstateparks.com)

Star Party at St. Francis in the Foothills Church
2024-09-21 19:00 - 21:00 | St. Francis in the Foothills Church, 4625 E. River Road, Tucson, Arizona, 85718
Join TAAA for a Star Party at St. Francis Church in the Foothills Church, Tucson AZ

Located near River Rd. and Swan Rd at 4625 E. River Road, this venue is well located for many in the central Tucson and Foothills communities.

Join us as we observe Planets (Saturn is now visible after many months being in the morning skies), Nebulas, Galaxies, and more!

Viewing will be from 7pm to 9pm at the far north end of the parking lot. (Stay to the left all the way to the end).

Stargazing at Saguaro NP – East
2024-09-27 19:00 - 21:00 | Saguaro National Park EAST, 3693 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ, 85730, United States
Star Party – Saguaro National Park – East
3693 S Old Spanish Trail
Tucson, AZ 85730
Great dark skies on the East side of Tucson at Saguaro National Park – East.
Star Party is open to the Public. Event is free but NPS admission fees apply.
The Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have several telescopes for astronomical viewing. We will observe Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, Star Clusters and lots more.
Great opportunity to look through a variety of telescopes.
Weather dependent. For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook Events Page: TAAA Facebook Events page

HYBRID – General Meeting – October 2024
2024-10-04 18:30 - 20:00 | Steward Observatory Lecture Hall (Room N210), 933 N Cherry Ave, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
Presentation: Dark Sky Southern Arizona 2.0: The Hits (and Misses) Of Our First Year and How Our Region Can Reclaim Its Leading Role

Light pollution is a longstanding concern in the Tucson area, which in many respects is the home of the global dark-skies movement. After going dormant during the pandemic, the Southern Arizona Chapter of DarkSky International (formerly the International Dark-Sky Association) was rebooted in mid-2023. In this talk, John Barentine will describe the motivations that led the group to restart the chapter along with the progress they have made toward achieving the strategic goals of their first three-year period. He will also give an update on regional light-pollution trends and opportunities that can strengthen this region’s leadership on outdoor lighting issues.

Bio: John Barentine is the Principal Consultant at Dark Sky Consulting, LLC, and was formerly the Director of Public Policy for the International Dark-Sky Association. He earned a Ph.D. in astronomy from the University of Texas at Austin, and previously held staff positions at the National Solar Observatory, Apache Point Observatory, and the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. Throughout his career, he has been involved in educating the public about science. He is a member of the American Astronomical Society and the International Astronomical Union, and is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. The asteroid (14505) Barentine is named in his honor. His interests outside of astronomy and light pollution research include history, art and architecture, politics, law and current events.can be found at https://www.astrobin.com/users/astronewbie/

Presenter: John Barentine

Stargazing at Chiricahua National Monument
2024-10-05 19:00 - 21:00 | Chiricahua National Monument, 12856 E Rhyolite Creek Rd, Willcox, AZ, 85643, United States
Join TAAA for an evening of stargazing to view amazing solar system and deep sky objects from a truly Dark Sky Park. You will see planets, nebulae, star clusters, double stars, galaxies millions of light years away, and lots more. We will have several telescopes for public viewing.
Observing location will be at the Faraway Ranch parking lot just past the entrance gate about 1/2 mile. Please try to use red light flashlights and minimize white light (to include cell phones) that will hinder your night vision.
Chiricahua National Monument website: https://www.nps.gov/chir/index.htm.
Weather dependent — Follow the event on the TAAA Facebook page to get weather and other updates: https://www.facebook.com/TucsonAstronomy/.
Check back here or on our Facebook page closer to the event for any updates.

Stargazing @ Picacho Peak State Park
2024-10-05 19:00 - 21:00 | Picacho Peak State Park, 15520 Picacho Peak Rd, Picacho, AZ, 85141
Truely dark skies at a scenic location – Picacho Peak State Park
Star Party is open to the Public. Event is free but park admission fees apply.
The Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have several telescopes for astronomical viewing. We will observe Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, Star Clusters and lots more.
Great opportunity to look through a variety of telescopes at a really dark location.
Weather dependent. For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook Events Page: https://www.facebook.com/TucsonAstronomy/events

ONLINE – Astronomy Fundamentals Meeting – October 2024
2024-10-10 18:30 - 20:00 | ONLINE
Main Presentation: Milky Way
Presenter: Doug Smith
This month, Doug Smith will be presenting on the Milky Way for our main topic.
Astronomer of the Month: Edmond Halley
Presenter: Pete Hermes
Pete Hermes will highlighting Edmond Halley for our astronomer of the month.

Solar Telescope Observing @ Saguaro NP – East
2024-10-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Saguaro National Park EAST, 3693 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ, 85730, United States
Join the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (TAAA) and Saguaro National Park – East for some Sun gazing at the park. We will observe the Sun through telescopes with appropriate filters so you will get to see sunspots, prominences, flares, and more.
The Sun is nearing its peak in the sunspot cycle so there is lots of activity on its surface.
This event is FREE and open to the public. NPS admission fees apply.
The telescopes will be set up at the Bicycle Ramada next to the Visitors Center.
This event will most likely be canceled in the event of clouds/rain.

Stargazing at the Tubac AZ Presidio State Historical Park
2024-10-25 06:15 - 20:00 | Tubac Presidio, 1 Burruel St, Tubac, Arizona, 85646
Join us at the Tubac Presidio State Historical Park in Tubac AZ for an evening of stargazing under truly dark skies at a historic location.
TAAA will have volunteer astronomers with Telescopes setup and viewing Planets,
Nebulas, Galaxies, Star Clusters and more, under the dark skies of Southern Arizona!
This is “Anza Under the Stars” night at the Presidio. For more information check out October 25th at:
Events | Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and Museum
Star Party is free but there is an admission fee for non-members of the Presidio.
Weather dependent. For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook Events Page: https://www.facebook.com/TucsonAstronomy/events

Stargazing at Catalina State Park
2024-10-26 19:00 - 21:00 | Catalina State Park, 11570 N Oracle Rd, Catalina, AZ, United States
Star Party at Catalina State Park – Tucson, AZ
Viewing Location: Trailhead Picnic area at end of road inside the park.
Great dark skies just north of Tucson at Catalina State Park.
Star Party open to the Public. Admission fee for entrance into Catalina State Park.
Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have approximately 10 telescopes for astronomical viewing.
We will observe Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, Star Clusters and lots more. Great opportunity to look through a wide variety of telescopes.
Weather dependent. For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook Events Page (https://www.facebook.com/TucsonAstronomy/).
Additional details will be posted here and on Facebook as we get closer to the event.

HYBRID – General Meeting – November 2024
2024-11-01 18:30 - 20:00 | Steward Observatory Lecture Hall (Room N210), 933 N Cherry Ave, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
Presentation: Exploring the Moon with Seismology: From Apollo to Artemis

Over 50 years ago, Apollo astronauts installed the first extraterrestrial seismometers on the lunar surface. These instruments recorded thousands of moonquakes (earthquakes on the Moon). Now, we’re heading back to Moon with modern seismometers as part of the Artemis missions. Lunar and Planetary Lab’s Angela Marusiak will discuss what we learned from Apollo, what we can learn from Artemis, the implications for future exploration, and how the University of Arizona is involved.

Bio: Angela Marusiak is an Assistant Research Professor at the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory at the University of Arizona. She received her Bachelors in Geophysics & Planetary Science from Boston University, and her PhD in Geology from the University of Maryland. She spent two years at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) as a postdoc before joining the faculty at UA. Her research focuses on the science of planetary seismology and development of relevant instruments. Her mission involvement includes InSight (Mars), Dragonfly (Titan), and Artemis III (the Moon). events.can be found at https://www.astrobin.com/users/astronewbie/

Credit: NASA

Stargazing at Tucson Mountain Park – Juan Santa Cruz Picnic Area
2024-11-02 18:30 - 20:30, 2024-12-21 18:30 - 20:30 | Juan Santa Cruz Picnic Area, 2000 N Kinney Road, Tucson, AZ, 85743, United States
Star Party @ Tucson Mountain Park – Juan Santa Cruz Picnic AreaTucson, AZ (right next to Sonoran Desert Museum)

Viewing Location: Small side loop on East side of main loop.Information: Great dark skies in Western Tucson. Star Party open to the Public. Cost: FREE.

Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have several telescopes for astronomical viewing. We will observe Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, Star Clusters and lots more. Great opportunity to look through a variety of telescopes. Weather dependent.For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook Events Page: TAAA Facebook Events page

Event is FREE but REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Go to this link to register: https://bit.ly/ticketsEEThese events may fill up early.

Stargazing at Agua Caliente Park
2024-11-08 18:30 - 20:30 | Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E Roger Rd, Tucson, AZ, 85749, United States
Viewing Location: Bus Lanes @ North end of Parking LotInformation: Great dark skies in Northeast Tucson. Star Party open to the Public. Cost: FREE.

Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have several telescopes for astronomical viewing. We will observe Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, Star Clusters and lots more. Great opportunity to look through a variety of telescopes.

Park gate may close before event end time, so arrive as close to start time as possible. Weather dependent.For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook Events Page: (https://www.facebook.com/TucsonAstronomy/).

FREE but REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. go to: https://bit.ly/ticketsEEThese events fill up fast so recommend registering early.

ONLINE – Astronomy Fundamentals Meeting – November 2024
2024-11-14 18:30 - 20:00 | ONLINE
Main Presentation: Volcanism in the Solar System
Presenter: Doug Smith
Doug Smith will be providing the main topic on Volcanism in the Solar System .
Astronomer of the Month: Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin
Presenter: Pete Hermes
Pete Hermes will be highlighting Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin as our Astronomer of the month.

Stargazing at Saguaro NP – East
2024-11-22 18:30 - 20:30 | Saguaro National Park EAST, 3693 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ, 85730, United States
Star Party – Saguaro National Park – East3693 S Old Spanish TrailTucson, AZ 85730

Great dark skies on the East side of Tucson at Saguaro National Park – East.Star Party is open to the Public. Event is free but NPS admission fees apply.

The Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have several telescopes for astronomical viewing. We will observe Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, Star Clusters and lots more.Great opportunity to look through a variety of telescopes.

Weather dependent. For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook Events Page: Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association | Facebook

Stargazing @ Canoa Ranch
2024-11-23 18:30 - 20:30 | Canoa Ranch, 5375 S I-19 Frontage Road, Green Valley, AZ, 85622, United States
Join the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (TAAA) and Pima County Natural Resources Parks and Recreation for some stargazing at Historic Canoa Ranch.

We will observe planets, star clusters, multiple star systems, nebulae, galaxies, and lots more.

Weather dependent. For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook Events Page: Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association | Facebook

FREE but REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED: Go to: https://bit.ly/ticketsEEThese events fill up quickly.

Stargazing at Oracle State Park
2024-11-30 18:00 - 20:00 | Oracle State Park, 3820 E Wildlife Dr., Oracle, AZ, 85623, United States
Viewing Location: Kannally Ranch House

Star Party telescope viewing (6:00 – 8:00pm)

Information: Great dark skies just north of Tucson at Oracle State Park.3820 E Wildlife Dr., Oracle, AZ 85623Star Party open to the Public. Admission fees for entrance into Oracle State Park apply.

Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have several telescopes for astronomical viewing. We will be observing the Moon + Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, and Star Clusters.Great opportunity to look through a wide variety of telescopes. Weather dependent.

For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook event page: TAAA Facebook Events page

Also: Check the Oracle State Park website for additional information and activities that day:Star Party at Oracle State Park | Oracle State Park (azstateparks.com)

HYBRID – General Meeting – December 2024
2024-12-06 18:30 - 20:00 | Steward Observatory Lecture Hall (Room N210), 933 N Cherry Ave, Tucson, AZ, 85721, United States
Presentation: The Reopening at Kitt Peak National Observatory: One Year In

Vanessa Gressieux presents an exploration of the current public outreach offerings at Kitt Peak National Observatory. Learn about the Observatory’s history, its long shut down after Covid-19 and the Kitt Peak Fire, and its new schedule of day and nighttime astronomy tours, and other events. Vanessa will touch on some of the scientific projects being conducted at Kitt Peak, which visitors can learn more about on tours to the telescopes involved. Learn why Kitt Peak is considered one of America’s premier tourist attractions, as well as an important astronomical research facility.

Bio: Vannessa Gressieux is a University of Arizona alumni with over 12 years of astronomy outreach and education experience. She is also a proud member of the TAAA and volunteers annually at the Grand Canyon Star Party. In addition to her role as the Guide and Docent Coordinator at Kitt Peak National Observatory, she has served as Solar System Ambassador with NASA and JPL.

Kitt Peak Aerial ViewCredit: NOIRLab/KPNO/NSF/AURA/P.Marenfeld

Stargazing @ Picacho Peak State Park
2024-12-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Picacho Peak State Park, 15520 Picacho Peak Rd, Picacho, AZ, 85141
Truely dark skies at a scenic location – Picacho Peak State ParkStar Party is open to the Public. Event is free but park admission fees apply.

The Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have several telescopes for astronomical viewing. We will observe Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies, Star Clusters and lots more.Great opportunity to look through a variety of telescopes at a really dark location.

Weather dependent. For real-time updates, follow this event on the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association Facebook Events Page: https://www.facebook.com/TucsonAstronomy/events

ONLINE – Astronomy Fundamentals Meeting – December 2024
2024-12-12 18:30 - 20:00 | ONLINE
Main Presentation: Galaxy Classifications
Presenter: Connor Justice
Connor Justice will be presenting on the first of two parts for Galaxy Classifications.
Astronomer of the Month: Harlow Shapley
Presenter: Doug Smith
Doug Smith will be highlighting Harlow Shapley for our ongoing Astronomer of the Month series

Solar Telescope Observing @ Saguaro NP – East
2024-12-15 13:00 - 15:00 | Saguaro National Park EAST, 3693 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ, 85730, United States
Join the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (TAAA) and Saguaro National Park – East for some Sun gazing at the park. We will observe the Sun through telescopes with appropriate filters so you will get to see sunspots, prominences, flares, and more.The Sun is nearing its peak in the sunspot cycle so there is lots of activity on its surface.

This event is FREE and open to the public. NPS admission fees apply.

The telescopes will be set up at the Bicycle Ramada next to the Visitors Center.This event will most likely be canceled in the event of clouds/rain.
