Northern Virginia Astronomy Club
From AstronomyOutreach network
Sharing our knowledge of space has always been an important part of NOVAC. Many of our members are avid astronomers and are very enthusiastic about the hobby. Each year we hold several public observing sessions and the annual Star Gaze to help you learn more. Please make plans to attend.
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Membership
By joining NOVAC, you will have the opportunity to meet others who have common interests and the opportunity to exchange ideas. Through our public programs, you will also get a chance to be involved in serving the public and to introduce others to the joys of astronomy.
Awards and Recognition
Clubs and Certification Programs
The Analemma Society Sponsors public observing every Friday at Observatory Park, near the village of Great Falls, Virginia.
The Astronomy Dept. of the University of Maryland Holds a public lecture followed by informal observing at the observatory in College Park, Maryland the 5th and 20th of each month.
The Montgomery College Planetarium Has one or two programs each month, and special programs can be arranged.
NOVAC Monthly Meetings Don’t forget that our meetings, generally held at George Mason University on the second Sunday evening of each month (except when that Sunday is Mother’s Day), are open to the public.
Outreach
You do not need to be a member of the club or own any astronomical equipment to attend. All you need is an interest in the wonders of the cosmos.
Preparation begins before leaving home. Dress warmly! Summer nights can still become cold. Please check the weather forecast.
For lighting, cover a flashlight in red cellophane (darker the better). Bring along water to keep hydrated and plan on staying the entire evening or as long as the weather allows. Please dim your vehicles headlights when arriving and departing.
Feel free to walk around and enjoy the sights through the equipment on display but please ask the owner before using. It’s best to control children around expensive astronomical equipment. Remember, telescope mirrors are sensitive to cigarette smoke and bug spray. Pets should not be brought onto the observing field.
Please check back with our website prior to leaving for the event. If it’s cancelled, there will be a notice prominently displayed on the homepage in the post or the calendar.
Club members will begin to arrive just prior to sunset. We advise you to arrive before darkness, too. The CM Crockett Park will be closed to non-NOVAC members at 11:00 PM.
For more information on NOVAC outreach and outreach requests, please fill out this outreach request form or contact the NOVAC Outreach Coordinator at: