A Guide To San Diego Astronomy Association

1. Things to do / Highlights

The organisation is passionate about furthering the cause of increasing public interest in astronomy, space, and other sciences. In operation since 1963, the organisation is well-known in southern California for regularly scheduled activities that pique the interests of curious members of the public. They even have their own 10-acre (4-hectare) dark observation site at Tierra Del Sol that has several pads ready to set up telescopes and other instruments. The club also has their own 8-inch (20-cm) refractor and 22-inch (55.8-cm) reflector that any trained member can use. They conduct educational seminars and lectures with notable scientists from NASA, esteemed university professors, and other experts in the field at various parks across the state.

Since many events of the organisation are open to the public, you can take your pick from their events calendar. But these are the two must-attend events:

Star Party

Tierra Del Sol, the organisation’s very own dark observation site, is thrown open once a month to non-members for a public Star Party. These parties commence at sunset and take a grand scale when the sky becomes pitch dark. Visitors are treated to ethereal views of the stars, planets, and celestial objects via various telescopes. They can even peruse the organisation’s 22-inch (55.8 cm) Lipp Telescope and request members to adjust the telescopes to view their favourite objects in the sky.

'Stars in the Park'

Conducted on the first Wednesday of every month is the ‘Stars in the Park’ event of the organisation. It is held at dusk outside the Fleet Science Center IMAX Theater in Balboa Park and is a free public telescope viewing events organised by San Diego Astronomy Association. Visitors can combine this with the monthly astronomer-led planetarium show 'The Sky Tonight’ at Fleet Science Center.

2. Travelers tips

Wheelchair accessibility

Tierra Del Sol’s observation site is wheelchair accessible but all other wheeled objects or vehicles, including bicycles, are prohibited.

Lights and noise policy

Use of camera flashes, white flashlights, and laser pointers are prohibited. Only red light or light masked in red is allowed at the observation site. Laptops should use a red filter or shield their light. All light should be kept pointed towards the ground. All this is in order to preserve the darkness of the area and aid the night vision and photography efforts of others. All noise must be kept to a minimum, especially during the designated quiet hours of 8 pm to 10 am. Running around the telescopes is also discouraged.

Dress for comfort

Since temperatures are expected to drop quite a bit at night, visitors may get cold and is advised to dress warmly. Layers work best since you can peel them off or add on as required. Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes since you may be on your feet for a long time. A warming room is sometimes accessible to the public on the Tierra del Sol site.

Come prepared

Bathroom facilities may not be available since the observation sites are in a remote location. Carry light snacks and water since you may feel peckish. Bring bug repellant and wear long-sleeved shirts and full-length pants.

3. How to get there

Tierra del Sol observation site

Driving is the easiest and most convenient way to access the Tierra Del Sol site of SDAA. Visitors can take the Interstate 8 (I-8), catching the Old Highway 80 leading to Tierra Del Sol Road that ultimately leads to the Tierra Del Luna dirt road where the observation site is located.

Fleet Science Center at Balboa Park

Located in the centre of Balboa Park is Fleet Science Center. Driving directions to the park are easily available from I-8, I-5, I-805, Highway 163 South, 94 West, or San Diego Airport.

Parking information

At the Tierra Del Sol site, you can park on the public parking lot near the SDAA site on the Tierra Del Luna dirt road. There are specific instructions to be followed while parking your car, taking into account whether you are a member setting up your telescope and the direction of your car headlights. It is advisable to arrive before dark so that you can easily locate parking spots. If you arrive after dark, use your parking lights.

Visitors to the Fleet Science Center can park at Space Theater Way, off Park Boulevard or at one of the many additional lots present in Balboa Park. At Balboa Park, all parking is free.

San Diego Astronomy Association Information

San Diego Astronomy Association

Address: 961 Tierra De Luna Rd, Boulevard, CA 91905, United States

Official Website: San Diego Astronomy Association

Department of tourism: California Office of Tourism