Stargazing at Hanna Park hosted by the Northeast Florida Astronomical Society [NEFAS]
Get ready to see stars, planets, the Moon, and interesting sky objects.
The general public is invited and most welcome!
Location: Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, 500 Wonderwood Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32233
Park entry fee is $5 per car. You must have paid and entered NO LATER THAN 5:30 PM when the gate entrance is closed for the evening. There will not be re-entry once you leave.
Find NEFAS in Parking Lot #8. Limit your use of vehicle headlights whenever possible during stargazing hours. Bring red lights if you have them.
There are restrooms, water fountain, but few lights. You may wish to bring a flashlight for the restrooms. Consider bug spray in case it is needed, but be mindful of any insecticide overspray that may reach telescope equipment and apply in another location.
All NEFAS volunteers bring their personal stargazing equipment and will instruct guests how to look at the sky objects safely without damage. Adults may need to assist children.
If you are considering purchasing a telescope this is an opportunity to examine several different types and sizes of telescope – ask lots of questions!
If you are having trouble with your own telescope, bring it along and one of our Telescope Doctors will take a look at it.
Sometimes cloudy conditions make it unfeasible to stargaze. NEFAS members WILL BE AVAILABLE regardless of inclement weather (Unless it snows!)
We hope to see you there!
Do we need to get the membership to join this event? What are the benefits of members?
Good Morning, Membership is not required to attend a Public Observing Session. That being said, membership has many benefits. NEFAS members are automatically enrolled in the Astronomical League. The Al is a word wide association of astronomers with quarterly newsletters and exciting events all over the world. The club enjoys discounts from astronomy equipment dealers as well as discounts to Astronomy magazines. We also have a “Dark Sky” location west of town that members frequent quite often where serious astrophotographers and observers can view the sky without the light pollution from Jacksonville. The club also has “Loaner” equipment for members to use and enjoy if they do not have their own equipment already. Quite honestly, It’s a great way to enjoy the sky!
Chuck Cummins
President NEFAS