Placerville Community Observatory
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Placerville Community Observatory
📅 January 31, 2026
⏰ 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM (PST)
📍 Community Observatory
6826 Hazel Ave, Orangevale, CA 95662
➤ Directions
🌟 Explore the Cosmos Under the Stars! 🌌
Experience the wonders of the universe at the Placerville Community Observatory.
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just curious about the night sky, this free event offers guided telescope viewing, expert insights, and unforgettable sights — all with the help of friendly, knowledgeable volunteers.
🔭 What You’ll Experience
▫️ See planets, galaxies & nebulae up close
▫️ Explore star clusters & deep-sky objects
▫️ Learn what you’re seeing in real time
▫️ Ask questions of experienced observers
👨👩👧👦 What to Know Before You Go
▫️ Family-friendly for all ages
▫️ Hosted by knowledgeable volunteers
▫️ Dress warmly for cool evening air
▫️ Arrive before dark for best viewing
VIDEO: Credit: ➤ PBS KVIE
Placerville Community Observatory Tap to expand
Visiting the Placerville Community Observatory is a great experience, especially if you’re interested in astronomy and stargazing. Here’s what you can expect:
Location & Hours
The observatory is located in Placerville, California, within Moskowite Ranch Preserve near Highway 50.
They typically offer free public viewing nights on Fridays and Saturdays (weather permitting).
Check their official website or social media for updated schedules and special events.
What You’ll See
The observatory is equipped with powerful telescopes, including a 17-inch Planewave CDK telescope and solar telescopes for daytime viewing.
Depending on the night and season, you might see:
- Planets like Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars
- Star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies
- The Moon’s craters in stunning detail
- The Sun (during daytime events, using special solar filters)
Visitor Experience
Knowledgeable Volunteers – The observatory is staffed by enthusiastic volunteers and amateur astronomers who explain what you’re seeing and answer questions.
Outdoor Setting – The site is dark and remote, which is ideal for stargazing. Bring a jacket, as it can get cold at night.
No Entrance Fee – The observatory operates on donations, so contributions are appreciated.
Family–Friendly – Great for kids and adults alike; however, young children should be supervised due to delicate equipment.
Tips for Your Visit
Arrive early to get a good spot, especially on popular celestial event nights.
Use red flashlights instead of white lights to preserve night vision.
Check the weather – Clouds can obstruct viewing, and some nights may be canceled due to conditions.
No need to bring your own telescope, but you’re welcome to if you have one.
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