Hopatcong Observatory Astronomy Club
The Hopatcong Observatory Astronomy Club is a 501c3 dedicated to promoting amateur astronomy in the local community.
The club hosts public stargazing events, members' meetings, and educational outreach to foster a deeper understanding of the night sky.
In the spotlight: The Parade
of the Planets!
After what felt like months of empty skies, the heavens have finally come alive. The sky is aglow with six visible planets! Unfortunately, Mercury remains hard to spot due to its close proximity to the Sun. However, a brilliant Venus dominates the western sky. Saturn can be found nearby, and its rings are breathtaking in any telescope. Jupiter can be seen in the middle of the sky, while Mars, the red planet, is unmistakable in the eastern sky. Uranus and Neptune are dim, but can be found with a telescope. We are very fortunate to be graced with observing opportunities for almost all of the planets in the solar system. The Hopatcong Observatory hosted a watch party on Saturday, February 1st to celebrate this celestial event.
Over 80 people braved the cold weather to catch a glimpse of 7 planets in one night. The event was a huge success, with astronomy enthusiasts visiting from all over North Jersey.
Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas makes a fly-by!
Photo by Rich Green
The comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas made its closest approach to earth on Saturday, October 12 at a distance of 44 million miles.
To celebrate this astronomical event, the Hopatcong Observatory hosted a comet watch party. On a crisp evening under the stars, astronomy enthusiasts and families alike gathered for a night of stargazing. The anticipation was palpable as guests gathered at the observatory, excited to catch a glimpse of the comet, which had been the talk of the astronomy community for months.
Club members provided telescopes and insights about Tsuchinshan-ATLAS and other night sky phenomena, including the northern lights. The watch party was a huge success, as the comet was visible to the naked eye. In fact, many stunning pictures were taken of the comet and its tail. The club is grateful for everyone who joined us for this special night. We look forward to continuing our outreach efforts, fostering a love for the stars, and inspiring the next generation of astronomers.
Event of the year: Solar Eclipse!
The Hopatcong Observatory Astronomy Club hosted a solar eclipse watch party at the Hopatcong Observatory. Over 300 attendees came out to witness the last solar eclipse in the NY metro area until 2079! The temperature got noticeably colder and the sky grew dark as the moon covered 93% of the sun's surface. In attendance were several local schools, scouts, and the general public. The day was a great success, and the club was proud to see the community come together as a whole to celebrate this celestial event.
Hopatcong Observatory's News 12 New Jersey interview regarding the eclipse.
Observatory telescope focusing on Jupiter
Purpose
-Foster an interest in astronomy by the local public
- Host age-appropriate events for local students
- Host star parties for the general public
- Minimize light pollution in the surrounding area
- Equip the observatory with new astronomy equipment
