Rose City Astronomers promotes the education of astronomy and the exploration of the night sky through our public outreach programs. We provide two types of outreach; public star parties and events open to anyone interested in astronomy, and outreach programs for individual groups and organizations (e.g. schools, churches, scout troops, company events etc.) at your location.

All of our outreach is provided by RCA volunteers at no cost and no speakers or volunteers are paid. However, RCA will gladly accept donations. Donations enable us to continue and improve our public outreach program. We are a 501c3 non-profit organization so all donations are tax deductable. Because we are all volunteers we cannot guarantee that we will be able to honor your request.

Star Parties and events for the general public

In partnership with OMSI, we provide star parties for the public many times a year at Rooster Rock State Park and Stub Stewart State Park. RCA volunteers enthusiastically share their telescopes and knowledge of the night sky with all who are interested. In addition to our public star parties we hold an information fair annually and astronomy day events one or two times a year. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend any, some or all of our star parties or events.

Outreach programs for groups and organizations

RCA encourages groups and organizations to contact us for outreach programs. We can provide evening observing sessions, daytime solar viewing, classroom presentations and hands-on educational activities all at your location. If your group is interested in scheduling an outreach event or would like more information, please contact Dawn Willard, our VP of Community Affairs. She will work with you to plan your event and recruit volunteers.

If you would like an event on a specific date, it is recommended that you contact is at least 2-3 months in advance of your date. Less time is needed if you are flexible on the dates and some events, such as daytime solar viewing, can be done with shorter notice.

 Because we are all volunteers we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to honor your request. So please contact us early with your requests. Also, be aware of the hours of darkness as it is hard to view the stars when the sun is up or within an hour or so after it sets.

Outreach opportunities for RCA club members

We are always looking for members that are interested in helping with public outreach. If you are interested in helping or have suggestions, please contact Dawn Willard, our VP of Community Affairs.

If you host a public outreach event or represent RCA for an event please fill out our outreach form, which will be sent to our VP of Community Affairs and our Treasurer. We track events and volunteer hours for the club.