Observatory Hosts Summer Solstice Stargazing

Westmont invites the local community to explore the night sky during its monthly free public stargazing event on Friday, June 19, beginning at 8:45 p.m. and lasting several hours at the Westmont Observatory. 

“Weather permitting, visitors will have the opportunity to view the moon, the Hercules globular cluster, and Mizar and Alcor, a famous double-star system in the Big Dipper that actually consists of six stars,” says Jennifer Gee, assistant professor of physics and director of the Westmont Observatory.

The viewing is held in partnership with the Santa Barbara Astronomical Unit (SBAU), whose members generously bring their own high-powered telescopes to share with the public around the observatory. Guests will also have access to the college’s primary resource, the powerful 24-inch refurbished Keck Telescope housed inside the observatory dome.

"Even though there is temporary fencing around parts of the observatory, we will still have access to the patio and dome," Gee says.

The public viewings are a staple community resource, held on the third Friday of every month. The events are completely free and last for several hours, offering an accessible, educational evening for space enthusiasts of all ages.

Free parking is available near the Westmont Observatory, which is between the baseball field and the track and field/soccer complex. To enter Westmont's campus, please use the Main Entrance off of La Paz Road. The lower entrance off of Cold Springs Road is closed to visitors after 7 p.m. Here is a map with directions to get to the observatory.