Schedule for this year
March 29th Messier Marathon
April 11th Hillcrest VCAS meeting
May 03th- Moorpark College Observatory- ASTRONOMY DAY
May 09th Hillcrest VCAS meeting
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
This year, we will be under the stars for our conference!
• The Astronomical League is pleased to announce that ASTROCON 2025 will be held during the new moon June 25-28 2025, at Ruby’s Inn, near the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park. Along with talks and workshops given during the day, nightly dark-sky observing will be offered at Rainbow Point.
• Bryce Canyon National Park features some of the darkest skies in the United States. Naturally, the National Park Service will hold a nightly public star gaze across the street from the Bryce Canyon Visitor’s Center for both park visitors and ASTROCON attendees. Ruby’s Inn is family-oriented with many options for fun and adventures. The area is full of possibilities.
• Ebenezer’s Barn and Grill will host the Star-B-Que Friday from Noon to 2:00 PM and the Gala Banquet Saturday night from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A room and/or RV Park/ tent camping site reservation link will be provided via email after registration to the conference has been confirmed. Lodging is available at a reduced rate and will fill up fast.
• Speakers and Workshops will utilize the lecture hall at Ruby’s Inn and Ebenezer’s Barn and Grill.
• Reserved rooms with the ASTROCON rates are available the nights of June 24th through the 28th. This also includes the RV Park and Campground. If you want to come earlier or stay later, you will be charged the normal room rate for those extra nights.
• Enjoy a vacation extravaganza to other National Parks and National Monuments within a day's drive.
• Many activities available: hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, guided ATV tours, and scenic flights.
• Featured Workshops:
Astrophotography / Digital Imaging - Novice
Astrophotography / Digital Imaging - Advanced
Observing: Personal Program / Journal
Observing: Tips & Ideas / Eyepieces / Filters
Observing: Charts / Books / Observing Lists
Sketching
What is the Ventura County Astronomical Society (VCAS)?
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!
Featured in the Ventura County Star, VCAS members provide insights and guidance for watching the upcoming total solar eclipse.
Happy New Year to All. I am looking forward to representing our society this year as your new 2024 Society President. With a new year we begin a new chapter into the VCAS, and I am looking forward to re-energizing our society into the future.
Moorpark College adjunct professor Harold "Hal" Jandorf spent his career showing students and others the importance of looking skyward.
Some VCAS members traveled to the Chuchupate ranger station to observe the peak of the Perseid meteor shower on Aug 12.