Sugarloaf Ridge State Park is the home of Robert Ferguson Observatory, Northern California’s most active public observatory. It is also the largest observatory in the western United States, completely dedicated to public viewing and education.
The Robert Ferguson Observatory is located near the group campground and is surrounded by a protective ring of hills, decreasing the light pollution from nearby cities. This astronomy observatory houses several telescopes. The 40″ reflecting telescope is the largest telescope accessible to the public in Northern California. Also check out the 8″ refractor telescope and the 20″ Ritchey-Chrétien CCD telescope.
The observatory also provides family programs, research opportunities, private on-site and off-site events, and a robust volunteer program.
The dark night sky of Sugarloaf Ridge makes it a perfect location for stargazing. The Robert Ferguson Observatory is open to the public only during scheduled events, including select weekends throughout the year for both night and solar viewing, as well as additional dates for a variety of programs and activities. Pre-registration is required. The observatory is also available to rent for private star parties and other special events.
Robert Ferguson Observatory
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