The San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA) partners with the Santa Clara County Open Space
Authority (OSA) to co-host monthly public star parties, called Starry Nights. These events are
held at Rancho Canada del Oro (RCDO) Open Space Preserve just 30 minutes south of
downtown San Jose. Getting away from the city lights allows dark enough skies that star party
attendees will be able to see the band of our Milky Way galaxy in the summer. You may even
be lucky enough to see a meteor or a bright satellite passing overhead.
Do not bring your own telescope (binoculars are welcomed, but please, no tripods). SJAA club
members will share views through their telescopes, talk about objects being viewed, and
answer general questions to allow star party guests to get the most knowledge and enjoyment
out of the dark Starry Night sky.
While attendance at Starry Nights is free, registration is required. Due to available parking space the OSA needs to control the number of cars at Starry Nights star parties. The OSA offers tickets through Eventbrite, while the SJAA uses Meetup for registration. See the SJAA Event Calendar or the Upcoming Events section on the right for upcoming Starry Nights sessions. In order to allow SJAA Members a chance to “beat the crowd”, a notice is posted to the “SJAA Observers” Google group before announcing Starry Nights events to the public.
Registration for Starry Nights star parties can be found on the MeetUp website. Come out and join us for an amazing night under the stars.
For more information about Open Spaces:
We kindly request that the public review the items on this link regarding star party etiquette.
How to find us: Rancho Canada del Oro is located at 4289 Casa Loma Road. From San Jose, take Hwy 85 South to Hwy 101 South. Exit to Bailey Ave and turn Right (West). In 3 miles, Turn Left on McKean Road. Continue for another 2.4 miles to Casa Loma Road. Turn Right. After crossing a small white bridge (1.5 miles), you’ve made it. Upon arrival you will be directed to parking by OSA volunteers.