Observation Opportunity
Saturday May 16, 2026 Sunset
This opportunity is provided for Volunteers and RAS members if clear skies prevail at sunset.
Heated bathroom access till 10:00 PM / Visitor Center is not open
No overnight Observing, members and volunteers must vacate by Midnight.
Volunteers, RAS Members and those interested in membership, are welcome to set up their own personal gear to observe from the amphitheater of the Ryan Observatory. This opportunity provides a secure dark sky location and practice with your equipment.
A Rittenhouse representateve will be on site by Nautical Dusk (see below) to turn off lighting to provide darkest skies for astrophotography.
Overnight camping is not permitted at the observatory. It is available in Muddy Run Campground. Please know most campground sites are tree covered.
Sunset 8:14 PM
Civil Dusk- 8:45 / Nautical Dusk- 9:23 / Astronomical Dusk- 10:05 PM
Nightfall 10:05 PM
Bring your own personal gear to observe.
A Rittenhouse Representative will be on site at Astronomical Twilight to turn of lighting for deep sky observation and photography.