Robert Ferguson Observatory - Kenwood, California

Truc V.

Went for a public viewing party- it was awesome! Knowledgeable volunteers and a good group of star lovers coming together to learn and view galaxies, nebulas, the moon, and more. Totally recommend for kids and adults!

Ron T.

Beautiful park and amazing people sharing their passion for stars and our planetary systems.

John

This is an amazing place! My son and I started coming here about two years ago. When we arrived the staff were so welcoming. My son had a great interest in Astronomy and the programs were very informative. He liked the place so much that we decided to volunteer. In a very short amount of time he was able to learn how to run the CCD telescope and was demoing it for the public on star party nights. I do not know where else you could get an opportunity like that. The only down side to being such a great place is that on the public star party nights it can get a little crowded. The staff does a great job keeping everything organized though with the crowds. If you do not like a lot of people you can attend one of their smaller class events. Months during the winter are usually the least busy for public star parties with the August meteor shower day usually the busiest. If you are going to show up for the August meteor shower do so very early (before sunset) otherwise you may be turned away when they have no more parking space.

Samantha H.

Amazing! The only observatory in CA where they allow you to personally look through the lenses of their massive telescopes!
The staff were very welcoming, and it is a very family friendly environment. No reason to fear for your life in the dark of the night.
If you’re staying at the Sugarloaf Ridge campground nearby, definitely take advantage of this amazing deal! A perfect family activity (as long as your kids can stay awake; it begins after sundown, so naps and caffeine are key). It is a light 10 minute walk from the campground, and only $3 per adult.

Corentin F.

Really nice experience! The staff is composed of really passionate and friendly people. It was amazing to see real time pictures of galaxies and looking at Jupiter and its moons through telescopes.
We also had a really interesting and instructional briefing lesson during sunset.
I recommend it to anyone.

Greg P.

My wife and I were camping at Sugarloaf Campgrounds and walked to the Observatory. The two gentlemen who oversee the facilities were amazing. They were welcoming, passionate and extremely educated regarding the great beyond. Looking through the telescope was a whole new experience. Looking at another solar system, planets, etc. was mind blowing. Worth the drive up. It was a free experience but I would recommend to anyone to leave a donation. It was the highlight of our trip.

Jojo M.

It was awesome to see Saturn in one of the big telescopes in the Observatory. I admire the volunteerism of the hobbyists and professionals who selflessly share their time and resources to the interested public. There are 3 huge telescopes here and everyone can take turns looking at the heavenly bodies. Worth the trip!

James K.

Some who have knowledge of astronomy/astrophysics have pointed out the deficiencies of this facility.

The docents don't know didly and it would seem those who work/volunteer there in a higher capacity would prefer to keep it that way. And to that, I don't know why. Do they?

The CCD array has/had the strongest potential as it's quantum efficiency is strong enough to get you out to mag 9 or so. Kinda nice for some of the planetary nebula. But again, it all goes to waste because the operators (docents) aren't trained enough to give you the insight that a tool such as this can provide.

I saw no indications of research, which is sad.

The facility could contribute scientifically, through the study of cephied variables or a host of other functions, including, but not limited to tracking asteroids or other solar objects. Which would intrigue the public! Hello

All in all, thumbs down for a poorly run operation that acts more as a glee club for an esoteric few greybeards who hold onto the place as if it was their private venue Vs. a public charity.