Star Parties: 2023-2024

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Winfree Observatory History and Video

Current Observing Conditions

Please refer to the I Love Randolph Science Facebook page for up-to-the-minute information about postponements or cancellations in case of inclement weather.

Join Randolph faculty and students as they open the Winfree Observatory to members of the campus community and the general public to view celestial objects.

  • Audience: All parties are open to the public.
  • Cost: Free!
  • Registration: Registration/tickets are not required.
  • What to expect: All activities will be held outdoors at the observatory facility.  Our main telescope is currently not operational, but we typically have other equipment to view the skies, weather permitting.  In the case heavy cloud cover, we may also have a presentation with a topic for discussion.  The event will likely be cancelled in the case of inclement weather.  Stairs are required to access the upper level of the facility, and the lower observatory lawn area is accessible.

The members of the Blue Ridge Astronomy Club regularly assist with the astronomy outreach events at the observatory by volunteering and bringing various astronomical equipment and telescopes.  To find out more about our local astronomy club, visit their website: www.blueridgeastro.com.


Friday, September 22, 2023

9 – 10:30 p.m. | Winfree Observatory
WildCat Weekend marks the beginning of the observing season.


Saturday, October 28, 2023

7:30 – 9 p.m. | Winfree Observatory


Saturday, November 18, 2023

7 – 8:30 p.m. | Winfree Observatory


Saturday, December 9, 2023

CANCELLED – we apologize for the inconvenience, and hope to see you at a future star party!


Saturday, February 10, 2024

7 – 8:30 p.m. | Winfree Observatory


Saturday, March 23, 2024

8:30 – 10 p.m. | Winfree Observatory
Join the SciFest Glow Stick Star Party!


Saturday, April 27, 2024

9:00 – 10:30 p.m. | Winfree Observatory