Join the SFAA at Yosemite's Glacier Point as we present a free, public star party for the park's guests.
Come join the San Francisco Amateur Astronomers for free public stargazing of the Moon, planets, globular clusters and more!
The event will take place in Tunnel Tops National Park, parking is located adjacent to Picnic Place (210 Lincoln Blvd for GPS) with the telescopes setup in the East Meadow.
Dress warmly as conditions can be windy or cold in the Presidio. Rain, heavy fog or overcast skies cancel the event. Check the SFAA website for a cancellation notice before leaving for the star party.
SFAA members with telescopes are encouraged to attend and share their views of the stars with the general public.
Baking and astrophotography share many things in common: You need the right equipment, attention to detail, and a creative flair. If it seems intimidating, following a recipe can be a great way to start. SFAA member Jason Griesbach will guide you through four astrophotography recipes, using only modest equipment. The result will be a heavenly four-course "meal", as we explore various ways to experience the night sky.
Attendance is in-person or virtual.
Virtual attendance links will be available well before the lecture.
Join us for a special edition of the San Francisco Amateur Astronomers city star party where together with thousands of people around the globe will all observe the moon for International Observe the Moon Night. For more information on ways to participate and to learn more about our nearest celestial body be sure to visit the NASA website.
Space exploration is increasingly privatized, from Earth's orbital space to the Moon and beyond. This has led to increasing congestion and environmental degradation of low-Earth orbits. Along with dramatic rises in ground-based light pollution, this has caused brightening night skies worldwide. The loss of dark skies and increasing space debris are already affecting astronomical observations as well as broader constituencies across humanity and the health of many ecosystems. I also share perspectives from numerous Indigenous communities and the growing impacts of these issues on their scientific-cultural practices and sky traditions. Space is an ancestral global commons, and the skies represent our shared heritage needing advocacy and protection more than ever.
Dr Aparna Venkatesan is an astronomer in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of San Francisco. She works on studies of the first stars and quasars in the universe, and on numerous cultural astronomy and space policy projects. She serves as co-Chair of the American Astronomical Society's Committee to Protect Astronomy and the Space Environment (COMPASSE). Dr. Venkatesan has been recognized internationally for her research, featured widely in the media, and received numerous prizes and awards. Dr. Venkatesan is deeply committed to increasing the retention of underrepresented groups in astronomy and STEM, and is active in developing scientific partnerships with Indigenous communities worldwide.
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