Telescope Tuesdays - Stargazing in McMinnville, OR

Telescope Tuesdays presented by Heritage Grove Credit Union is Carlton Observatory's free, weekly community stargazing series.

Running every Tuesday from late-August through October. Each week, our volunteer astronomers set up telescopes on the east side of the Space Building at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, offering the public a free, hands-on look at the night sky.

When you arrive, you'll find our team setting up in the twilight just before sunset — a great time to bring kids, ask questions, and see the equipment up close. As the sky darkens, usually about 30-45 minutes after sunset, the first stars and planets begin to appear, and our presenters guide guests through what's visible that night — from familiar constellations to deep-sky objects like nebulae and distant galaxies, depending on the season and sky conditions.

No experience or equipment is needed — just show up and look up. Telescope Tuesdays are free and open to everyone, with donations gratefully accepted to support our mission of making astronomy and science education accessible throughout Yamhill County. Free parking is available on-site.

Thank you to Heritage Grove Credit Union for their generous support as our Season Presenting Sponsor, helping bring this program to the community.

Please note: if cloudy or rainy, events will be cancelled. Follow our Facebook page and Instagram for the latest updates and cancellation notices.

Registration is preferred but not mandatory.

See graphic below for directions and parking!

500 NE Captain Michael King Smith Way, McMinnville, OR 97128

If you have questions, email henry@carltonobservatory.org.

Photo & Video Release

Carlton Observatory may take photos and video during this event for use in our marketing materials, social media, website, and promotional content.

You may opt out by filling out this form.