fremont peak observatory

An tall concrete structure in landscaped gardens with good points over the city and interesting murals around the internal ground floor walls

We liked the opportunity to observe both the sun and the stars with these great folks who seem to donate their time and expertise to share their knowledge with the public. We were hoping to learn a bit more about what it was we were looking at, but did not find literature that might explain it better. The gentlemen were very helpful and friendly, but I was looking to take something home for further education on the galaxy. I didn't find it there, but did have a great opportunity to see star clusters and satellites in greater clarity and view than I have ever seen them before. We wanted to sit in on the lecture but we missed it because we were not aware it had started, and when we did get to it, the room was too small to accommodate our family with all of the people who who were already in there.Check the web site before you visit because the telescopes are only set-up on specific days/nights. My boys (ages 7 and 9) kept saying, "Wow! Those are a lot of stars." We also saw some satellites and the space station orbiting Earth. THAT was cool.

I wanted to go for a stargazing event on 8 Sep 2012 but didn't have any experience and deep knowledge about astronomy. I do not know what are constellations, where is the milky way, etc... Despite these, my wife and i decided to give it a try at such event. I did not bring anything, just my camera. The tips on the website helps. No torchlights, warm clothings, etc.. Upon reaching the place (with houses), there were enthusiasts setting up hugh telescope using dim red lights.. I continued my way up to the observatory and found the 'tour' has started and the group are being led to the telescope (challenger) to see the galaxies and stars.. The staff are using strong laser pointers that shoots right to the stars so that you know exactly what you're looking at through the telescope. I had the opportunity to speak to Ron, one of the staff with immerse knowledge and huge passion on astronomy. He patiently explained to us the name of stars, how many light years away, as well as constellations such as Northern cross, swan, hercules, M13 galaxy, Dipper, scorpion ice cream cone and of course, the milky way.. (sorry for the layman's terms, it helps a newbie like me). Anyway, we sense the passion and desire to impart knowledge to you. There was a moment of student - Teacher/friend feeling. It was educational but friendly. You can see through their telescope (of course, politely asking the staff) to look at the beautiful stars/ galaxies.. I would call this tour an educational tour because it's not like a carnival whereby people are selling telescopes, souvenirs or asking donations, etc.. I find it suitable to bring your loved ones, family, kids or friends there to have a great time enjoying the peaceful, beautiful but busy skies.. We happened to see shooting stars!!! It's definitely one of the highlights of my 1 year stay in California! Ron, thanks for your time, i hope you've managed to obtain the data that you need. To the rest of the staff at the observatory, thanks for your patience and weekends to share your knowledge and passion with strangers like myself and my wife. I'll certainly dropby again when i visit California again. Hopefully, it's during a meteor shower!Chong/ Siew-wen