Mt. Tamalpais State Park
Explore the Wonders of the Universe
Welcome to the Mt Tam Astronomy Programs. This is an educational program designed to give the general public and students of all ages and background a better understanding of our universe by hearing about current theories and discoveries followed by an opportunity to observe through telescopes. The evenings are held each Saturday nearest the first quarter moon from March through October. A talk by a professional astronomer, physicist or space scientist begins in the Mt Theatre near the end of twilight and lasts about 45 minutes. These presentations are typically enhanced by beautiful images projected on a large screen. The audience is invited to ask questions at the end. Following the lecture, audience members are invited to the Rock Spring Parking Area to view through telescopes provided by members of the San Francisco Amateur Astronomers. The observing session (or "starparty") lasts from one to one and a half hours, depending on the seeing conditions and the size of the crowd.
Viewing Etiquette:
The observing sessions are courtesy of the San Francisco Amateur Astronomers. The equipment is the personal property of the members. Please do not handle or adjust any equipment without the explicit permission of the owner(s). White light ruins dark adeptness, so please use only filtered (preferably red) light around the telescopes. (The greeters in the Mountain Theater have filters and loaner flashlights for those who do not bring their own.) The observing sessions last about 1 to 1 1/2 hours after the programs.
Volunteers Needed
Volunteers are needed to keep these programs going. We need YOU to become a VIP (Volunteers In Parks also Very Important Person). No experience is necessary. You can park cars, greet the audience, or help set up and take down our equipment, and still enjoy the speaker and observing session.
Participants need to attend a one-time, two hour orientation before working as a State Park VIP. Volunteer orientations with Interpretive Ranger Sam Toffoli will be held before the astronomy programs on March 19 (4-6pm), May 14 (5-7pm) and July 9 (5-7pm). Call Tinka at 415-454-4715 and sign up now to insure that our programs will continue.
Closing Time:
A State Park Ranger will announce the park's closing time for the evening. We ask that all guests vacate the premises promptly at the end of the viewing session which follows the lecture.
Astronomy Questions?  Click on the mailbox Telephone:
(415) 388-2070 (Pantoll Ranger Station)
(415) 455-5370 (taped message, after 4:00pm)
San Francisco Astronomy Association:
415-289-6636 (415-289-NOFOG)
Mailing Address:
MTIA/Astronomy Programs
P.O. Box 3318
San Rafael, CA
94912 |