During this long pandemic, as we have found ourselves stuck at home and secluded, some of us have turned our attention to the night sky. This newfound interest has resulted in a surge in the sales of telescopes across the world. Are you new to owning a telescope or looking to purchase one for yourself or as a gift?  

Ed Anderson, a member of the Astronomical Society of Long Island (ASLI) and of the Custer Institute, will provide insights into what you need to know and understand about buying or owning your first telescope.  He will discuss what they cost, the different types of telescopes, where and how you store them, how you would transport them and some basics on their use. Whether your budget is small or large, there is a telescope out there for everyone!  There will be time for questions and answers at the end of the presentation and if the weather is good, Ed will open the ASLI dome on the grounds of Custer Observatory and turn the 14” Meade telescope on the wonders of the sky, selecting showcase targets for your enjoyment. 

Weather permitting, Custer Observatory staff will also give tours of the night sky through the Zerochromat telescope in the main observatory dome and other powerful telescopes on site. Feel free to bring your own binoculars or telescope, if you have one, to look through after the presentation. Or just enjoy the view from ours!

$5 Adult, $3 Children Under 16, Observatory Member FREE. Your donations make it possible to offer programs like these and are greatly appreciated. Attendance will be limited and restrictions in place per NYS COVID-19 guidelines required at the time of the event.

Please bring a blanket or chair to enjoy this outdoor presentation.