Afternoon Solar Program at Goldendale Observatory
Spend the afternoon learning all about our local star, the Sun. Enjoy the best live telescope views of the sun anywhere!
Select date and time
Location
Goldendale Observatory State Park
1602 Observatory Drive Goldendale, WA 98620About this event
In the afternoon, visitors are treated to an insightful discussion on the surface features and inner workings of our local star, the Sun. This one to two hour long show includes some of the highest resolution and contrast live views of the Sun you will see at any public observatory or science center. By the end, you will understand the stars!
Program lasts 2 hours and begins at:
2pm October through March.
3pm April through September.
Visitors must arrive on time.
Please note these important details:
- Admission is Free during regular schedule. A WA State Parks Discover Pass is required to park on-site and is available for purchase at the facility; $10 day-pass, $30 annual.
- Double check program start times; visitors must arrive on time, but early departures are always permitted. Late visitors may forfeit their telescope viewing opportunity.
- It is advised that visitors arrive 30 minutes before showtime to ensure parking; carpooling is always recommended.
Frequently asked questions
If weather prevents us from looking through the telescopes, we perform equipment demonstrations and use pre-recorded images and videos during our live talks.
No, we do not have a planetarium. We have real telescopes that you get to look through!
Yes. We look at the sun and not other space objects. This show is also shorter than the evening program. We recommend attending both shows for the full experience.
The shows are free, however, Washington State Parks require a valid Discover Pass for parking, available for purchase on-site. Daily passes are $10 and annual passes are $30. Discover Passes are good at any State Park in Washington.
Camping and overnight parking are never permitted. We recommend other local campgrounds, such as Maryhill and Brooks Memorial State Parks. Local motels are also available, such as The Ponderosa and Quality Inn & Suites.
Animals, including pets and emotional support companions, are not permitted; trained service animals are permitted upon satisfactory clarification as per State and Federal regulations.
We use special solar filters to make it safe to view the sun. You should only look at the sun through a telescope or binoculars if you have the appropriate safety equipment and know how to use it.
Yes! We encourage children of all ages to visit, but guardians should keep a watchful eye on young hands as there are antiques and sensitive instruments in the facility.