The Field Trip & Observing program coordinates with the Observatory Committee to run Prime Night Weekends, the Annual Picnic & Star Party, and the Messier Marathon. Contact [email protected] for specific information.

Prime Night Weekends

Each month HAS hosts a prime night weekend at the Observatory & Dark Site, often with an observatory open house. Don't forget to take your Dark Site Orientation! It's available on the website under Member Features once you've logged in. If you're going to make a night of it, you can reserve a bed in one of the bunkhouses—men's, women's or family—via [email protected].

Annual Picnic & Star Party

Celebrating a new tradition: The HAS Picnic & Star Party is held each year on the Saturday immediately preceding Thanksgiving. Bring a dessert to share. The barbecue and fixings are on the club!

Messier Marathon Resources

FT&O also runs the annual Messier Marathon at the Observatory & Dark Site.

A Messier Marathon can only take place during a brief window in March and early April, with the absolute peak occurring around the vernal equinox. During this specific period, the Sun's position creates an ideal gap, allowing observers at mid-northern latitudes to spot all 110 objects in Charles Messier’s catalog in a single night from dusk to dawn. Be sure to check the website Upcoming Events calendar for dates.