Public Viewing Nights

Every Wednesday, after 8 pm, if the skies are clear, the Westport Astronomical Society holds a public viewing night. If it’s near the summer solstice, please do not come until after sunset – we will likely open at 9 pm for a month on either side of the solstice. Look at the live feeds at the bottom of this page for current updates.

Weekly Stargazing at Westport Observatory
Join us for public stargazing nights at the Westport Observatory, where volunteers set up telescopes for an evening of exploration and learning, open to all ages and experience levels.

Before You Come:
Check the weather! If it’s cloudy, rainy, or snowy, the Observatory will remain closed. This outdoor event can get very cold or hot, so dress appropriately. For frequent updates check social media (Facebook, Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, Bluesky, Mastodon).

Location:
182 Bayberry Lane, Westport, CT – up the hill behind the Aspetuck Health District. Directions available [HERE].

Parking & Arrival:
Parking is limited. If full, park at the Aspetuck Health District lot at the bottom of the hill and walk up. Please turn off headlights and avoid using flashlights to preserve night vision (red lights only).

Observing Etiquette:

• Do not touch or move telescopes without permission.
• Follow volunteer instructions when using the equipment.
• Avoid touching the eyepiece when looking through the telescope.
• Be patient; lines may form, but everyone will see exciting objects.
• Feel free to ask questions!
• When lines are short, you may use your phone to photograph celestial objects like the Moon or planets (results vary).

Enjoy the wonders of the night sky with us!

BUY US A COFFEE: While our public viewing nights are always free, a suggested donation of $5 per person for non-members helps us to run our non-profit organization, maintaining our telescopes and facilities for years to come. We rely on support from people like you and are always looking for new members to join our society. Our 100% volunteer team believes that keeping science in our community makes it better for everyone.

Weather and updates at the Westport Observatory

Below is Astropheric; it’s the astronomers forecast showing present and future cloud cover, temperatures, seeing, transparency, the jet stream, smoke, ISS passes, light pollution and more over the Westport Observatory.