The best classroom is the real night sky.
Planning a group activity? I have worked with groups of up to 300 in an evening. To get started we will
need to look at your dates and consider moon phase, weather trends, location, and if there is anything
special you would like to see or know about. Have a home or Yacht with a view? Make your next party
a Star Party with the addition of telescopes. It's a classroom without the room. Just the bowl of night,
which is what we started out with thousands of years ago...
Are you a Retreat, Summer Camp or Metaphysical store?
Consider contacting us for special programs.
What we may observe is determined by weather, overall sky conditions and what is visible at the time,
in the sky. The sky doth move! If we miss an observing night, we'll re-schedule. We work with larger
groups such as Youth and Church groups. We also work special evening events. Book early so we can
plan a good observing experience for everyone. All children must be accompanied by a parent or
Guardian at all times.
Teachers Please contact me for information on integrating our programs with your curriculum needs.
You also need to consider if your athletic field lights can be shut off. We need DARK skies for nighttime observing.
Star Gazing for Beginners.
2hrs.
Have you had an interest in Star Gazing but didn't know how to get started? Do you look up and wonder “how do I
find the Planets?” “Where is the North Star?” “Can I see my Sign?” How do I find Constellations/Planets and use
a star chart? If so then this class is for you! We'll learn in a non technical way to navigate the jumble of stars and
get you on the right track to enjoying the Night Sky. I supply all materials and you will come away knowing more
about the sky, faster than you could by reading a book on it! Often times the books and star charts are so
complicated. It's easier to just get out under the sky and go observing with knowledgeable people. And it's fun.
Observe the Moon.
2hrs.
On average the Moon is 238,855 miles away. With a telescope you can see craters down to 1/2 mile across. A
Quarter Moon is a beautiful thing to see. Watch it over the hours and you can see the shadow lengths increase as
the sun angle changes. A beautiful and stark place, the Moon has captivated us for thousands of years. The
Moon is best observed when not in a Full phase. Plan for observing either side of Full Moon. (the FM presents no
contrast for observing)
Observing the Winter OR Summer Sky.
2hrs.
Winter or Summer course. See where the signposts are, The Constellations and then move on to the Planets.
Now learn how to locate objects that lie within them such as Nebulae, Galaxies and Star Clusters. You will come
away knowing more about the sky, faster than you could by reading a book or trying to figure out how to use star
charts for the first time.
Just Need some help?
New to Astronomy and observing and considering the purchase of a telescope? Need help with equipment you
bought and can't figure out how to use? Looking to sell your equipment and not sure how to? I have over 15 years
of experience with equipment and observing. I can assist you in making a good choice for your budget and needs.
I can answer your questions about the night sky, or help you find an astronomy club or other educational venue in
your area world wide, be it Planetarium or Observatory. Considering a small Planetarium or Observatory purchase
for your school? I have experience with the small Observatory and Planetarium setup and design. I have used up
to 17.5" truss mounted scopes. Up to the Meade 16" automated SCT's.
Calusa Night Sky Tours.
239-851-STAR
Call 239-851-STAR for more information or
fill out the form to start your reservation!