Dedicated to helping stargazers of all ages learn about the joys of amateur astronomy through events, monthly meetings, star parties and community outreach.
"WEATHER PERMITTING"
Messier Marathon on Saturday evening March 29th to last the entire night into Sunday morning March 30th. The marathon will be held at the Frazier Mountain Trailhead 20W03 parking lot located just approx. 1/4 mile above the Chuchupate Ranger Station on Frazier Mountain Rd. This event is open to all VCAS members, family, friends, and the general public. Please plan to bring "Very Warm Jacket / Clothing as the nighttime temperatures could get into the low 30's. It is possible to see even lower temps through the night.
The Messier Marathon rules state that the participant is to use Manual / or Old School Observation, "No GOTO / Computer Aided Observations" We encourage all participants to try your best to follow the rules of the Marathon. No one will be excluded, all are welcome to participate even with GOTO telescopes. You must have your own telescope.
Please email vcas.president1@gmail.com if you plan to attend the Messier Marathon. VCAS Members that participate will receive a certificate from the Astronomical League for your participation. Also we want to make sure we have enough Object Order Finding lists to hand out.
The Frazier Mountain Trailhead (elev. 5400 ft.) is located on the west side of Frazier Mountain Road (8N04) approximately 3/4 mile south of Lockwood Valley Road and Forest Service Chuchupate Ranger Station. There is a large paved parking lot with pull-through stalls for vehicles with trailers or motor homes, and a vault toilet at the trailhead.
Current status of the Frazier Mountain Trailhead is listed as closed, please ignore as the parking lot is never closed (no gate), only the OHV Trailhead is closed for the winter.
A Forest Pass is not required to park in this parking location.
Current weather statistics are showing clear skies with a low of about 38 to 40 degrees through the night.
Please keep an eye on your emails, as we will update a "Go" or "No Go" for this event on Friday March 28 evening, and /or Saturday March 29th morning.
Are you passionate about exploring the stars and deepening your understanding of the universe? Join the Ventura County Astronomical Society (VCAS) and connect with a community of amateur astronomers!
We offer engaging events, including public star parties, expert-led lectures, and hands-on workshops. Whether you're new to astronomy or a seasoned stargazer, our members enjoy exclusive access to telescopes, astro-imaging groups, field trips to dark-sky locations, and more.
Come and share your curiosity with us — everyone is welcome under the stars!
As darkness falls, this time of year reveals a google of galaxies that are scattered across the spring sky. I will concentrate on the brighter ones in two constellations, Leo and Ursa Major. Springtime is often referred to as 'galaxy season' by astronomers.
Schedule for this year
March 29th Messier Marathon
April 11th Hillcrest VCAS meeting
May 03th- Moorpark College Observatory- ASTRONOMY DAY
June 7th Charles Temple Observatory Star Party
June 20th Mount Wilson trip (reservations Req.)
July 25th Mount Wilson trip (reservations Req.)
July 26th Paramount Ranch Star Party
August 23rd Paramount Ranch Star Party
Sept 13th Paramount Ranch Star Party
Sept 27th Mount Wilson trip (reservations Req.)
October 04th Paramount Ranch Star Party
November 14th Hillcrest VCAS meeting
December 06th VCAS Holiday Banquet at Ottavio’s