Residents who like gazing at the stars do not have to drive very far for the nearest public observatory. The Gordon D. Crowell Observatory, located at Río Hondo College, has one of the largest telescopes in Southern California and it’s open to the public on a regular basis, free of charge.
The observatory will be open from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on select Friday evenings, October 11, & 25, November 8, & 22, and December 6.
These events are weather-dependent; clouds or rain will cause cancellation. Those who wish to attend are advised to arrive 10-15 minutes early. Parking for this event is in Lot C. All will meet at the Child Development Center gate and then walk up to the observatory as a group. Late arrivals may walk up on their own. The uphill walk is a moderate mile hike on a paved road. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Attendees may bring their own drinks and snacks as there are no vending machines or water fountains at the observatory. There are also no restrooms located at the observatory. In order to keep the observatory dark, flashlights are only needed for the walk down. No flash photography is allowed.
Rio Hondo is located at 3600 Workman Mill Road in Whittier. For more information, contact the College at 562.692.0921 ext. 3472.
