Would you like to enjoy an evening at the Observatory?
Our Facilities Planning your Session
In our private observing sessions you and your group will get to spend 2-3 hours under the stars, and personally view celestial objects through the KPO 18″ Reflector telescope; one of the largest telescopes in Central Florida.
What You Can See…
I’m Dave Hearn; I will be your guide – I have been into astronomy my entire life. I have shown the night sky to thousands of people, and I love to answer your questions about astronomy and space!
See this news article that covered the observatory and our astronomy outreach programs. Also, please see my Star Hopping site and YouTube astronomy show.
KPO’s Facilities
We’ve enhanced our facilities in 2023 and can now handle groups of up to 30 people.
⇒ The Observing Deck
We have a brand new 225 square foot observing deck, that allows the observing sessions to be outside in the open air. The 18″ KPO Reflector telescope now lives here, and is protected from the elements by a roll-back building. Our sessions are done mostly here under the open sky.
⇒ The Observatory
The Observatory building is home to our theater and the new 12″ Richey Chretien Astrograph (photographic telescope).
This system can be used to show deep sky objects to your group in real time, on the large video screen. Your visit will include a tour of the observatory and the 12″ RC system.
Important Info for Planning and Booking your Private Observing Session
We encourage you to read the linked information below, in order to get the most out of your session.
⇒ Determine the best Phase of the Moon for your Session
⇒ Understanding Weather for Astronomy
⇒ Driving Directions & General Preparation
Fees
The following fee structure applies for our Private Observing Sessions:
| Group Size | Total Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-5 | $50 |
| 6-10 | $100 |
| 11-15 | $150 |
| 16-20 | $200 |
| 21-25 | $250 |
| 26-30 | $300 |
- No-questions-asked refund if the weather does not cooperate, or if you have to cancel before the session.
- Groups larger than 30 people will need to book multiple sessions.
- “Total Cost” is the fee for the entire group.
Ready to Book Your Session?
Dave, my daughter and I had such a great time last night. I will never forget it. You were so informative. I’m so glad we were able to have our own session with you. We would have never been able to see the stars, moon and planets with any organization the way we did last night. We really enjoyed seeing the animals as well. I’ll never look at the stars the same way again. Looking forward to seeing you in the Fall.
Ed & Lauren
Up to what age are children admitted free with an adult
Usually up to about 2 years old. My view is that anyone that will be looking through the telescope is counted.
Is your facility handicap accessible? Can someone in a wheelchair participate in the observation?
cuales son los horarios de observación? cuanto es el costo solo para 3 personas?
How long is the event and what are the times that we can schedule for?