The California State Parks have granted the SFAA a Special Use Permit allowing us to meet once a month on Mt. Tam at Rock Spring Trailhead Parking Area from sunset until 2 AM. This star party is only for SFAA members in good standing. Our permit limits us to 50 attendees. Members will receive an email two weeks prior to the party with instructions for registration.
Members should come to the star party only if they have received confirmation.
All members must arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset. At sunset, Park Rangers lock the gate to Pantoll Road (at Panoramic Highway). Before departing the Rock Spring Area, be sure to know the lock's combination to exit. After exiting the gate, be sure to lock the lock.
When attending, members will need to bring and display their California State Park Parking Permit (CSP Parking Permit). If your Parking Permit needs to be updated, please email treasurer@sfaa-astronomy.org.
New members must submit their online application a minimum 10 days prior to attending a Members-Only Mt. Tam Star Party to allow for the processing and mailing of a CSP Parking Permit.
Access to the Mt. Tam Star parties is one of the great benefits of SFAA membership. The parties offer peaceful viewing with no street lights, a great range of visibility, and the opportunity to network with fellow astronomers. This venue is truly wonderful, because it is almost always above the fog, making viewing especially delightful when the city lights are blanketed by the marine layer. Many nights we can see the Milky Way in all its glory!
Please familiarize yourself with the Star Party Etiquette Guidelines. Bring warm layers including a hat, because it can get cold. Remember your red flashlights to help preserve everyone's night vision. Bring a beach or camping chair to relax in as the sun sets and the sky darkens - it can take a while.
If a star party is canceled (weather, red flag warning, park closed), the SFAA will aim to update the event's calendar listing on this website. Best to also check the Mount Tamalpais State Park's status here.
Star Gazing Tools and Weather Conditions Links
Rock Spring Trailhead Parking Area
Mt. Tamalpais State Park
Ridgecrest Blvd @ Pantoll Road
Directions
