Observing God's handiwork declared by the heavens. Our Observatory here at New Hope is equipped with the Setterfield 16" diameter Ritchey-Chretian Telescope. It is one of the best public viewing facilities in Oregon and we welcome you to come out and gaze at the wonder's of God's creation. We are located at 5773 New Hope Road, Grants Pass, OR 97527 - View Google Map for directions. 

Also, visit one of our local astronomers, John Bunyan's website @: http://grantspassastronomers.com/Links.aspx for much more star gazing information.

Star Parties  – Open viewing nights for the general public. 

  1. A $4 viewing fee is requested/person to help defray observatory expenses. 
  2. Groups of 6 or more must make reservations.  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 476-4588.
  3. Bring your telescopes for others to look through while taking turns to see through New Hope’s telescope.  Electrical outlets are available.
  4. Bring good binoculars.  School has 8 pairs that can be borrowed.
  5. Do not bring flashlights unless they are small and covered with a red filter.  Even then use should be very limited.
  6. This is a smoke-free, drug-free, alcohol-free campus.
  7. Park in the parking lot off of Hidden Valley Rd and follow posted directions to the observatory.  Handicap, elderly, or those bringing a heavy telescope may enter parking lots off of New Hope Road. 

2010 Scheduled Saturday viewing nights. Starting Times TBA

(Observatory will be closed if foggy or cloudy.)

Saturdays:

April 24*
May 22*
June 19*
July 17*
August 21*
September 11*
October 16*
November 13

 
* Note: For all these dates except November 13, the USA is functioning on Daylight Saving Time. DST starts March 14 and ends November 7. Therefore, we recommend starting each star party at 8:00 PM or thereabouts with an inspection of the telescopes while it is still light. This will be followed by a 45+ minute presentation in the Cafeteria. At about 9:00 the observing will commence, in most cases beginning with the Moon. This will be followed by other available objects. In the case of November, if the weather is still good, we should plan to start about 7:00 or 7:15 PM as it will be dark by then or soon after.
 

Other times of the week may be scheduled by appointment. Contact the school by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , (541) 476-4588 (Monday-Friday), or 660-6320.