Here are some of the observing sites used by SJAA
members and other amateur astronomers around the Bay Area.
More information and other sites available on TAC's
Sites Page
This is the site of our city star parties and the location of our
monthly general meetings. Houge (rhymes with "Yogi") Park is
in San Jose, near Campbell and Los Gatos. This location is
very convenient for city residents, and a good location for introducing
people to amateur astronomy. Views of the constellations, brighter
deep sky objects, the moon and planets are typical observing targets.
Between the parking lot and tennis courts is a sidewalk where public
star parties are held. The meeting hall is directly ahead (south)
of the parking lot. There are restrooms on the other side of the
the hall.
In Morgan Hill, go east on East Dunne Ave. for 12 miles.
Eventually you'll cross a cattle guard. An additional half mile
brings you to a sign identifying the Park, and immediately afterward
on the right is a large dirt overflow parking lot which is the
observing site. The main park and campground are a half mile farther
on. The park fee is $8 per vehicle, payable in the drop-box at
the park entrance. You must visit the HQ and pay your fees. Note
that a clip lock is used on the gate. The gate must be locked
when you leave.
Fremont Peak State Park is south of the village of San Juan Bautista,
about a 1 hour drive from San Jose.
There are several areas within the park used by astronomers.The
areas near the ranger house (Observatory and Ranger row on the are
managed under contract to the state by the Fremont Peak Observatory
Association. Contact FPOA for access if you want to set up a scope.
FPOA runs a summer program at this location using their 30"
telescope. For more information contact FPOA.
The Coutler and SW Lot areas are managed directly by the park. For
latest access information see TAC
Sites
This is the loation of the annual Golden State Star Party, near
Adin, California. Great dark skies and plenty of amenities for
all. For more information see http://www.goldenstatestarparty.org
The annual CalStar dark sky party is at Lake San Antonio in southern
Monterey County. For more information see CalStar
and is approximately 2.5 hours south of San Jose.
Here is some information
about visiting at other times. See the CalStar site for maps
and directions.
This site is available for observing only when the Santa Clara
County Open Space Authority and SJAA host a Starry Night Program,
or when the SJAA announces it is available. Otherwise, the site
is closed.
Other Sites
One needn't attend the club function to do observing. Be aware,
though, that locked gates and closing times apply at many sites.
Nighttime access may only be available only with prior arrangement
or notice. Check the TAC
sites page for the latest information on other locations.
