Meetup questions

Before you join us under the stars

A few practical details for first-time visitors and returning members, so attending feels simple and comfortable.

Who can attend Moonbeam meetups?
Anyone with an interest in the night sky is welcome, including first-time visitors, students, and returning members.
What should I bring to a session?
Bring warm layers, comfortable shoes, and if possible a red-light flashlight. Binoculars are helpful but optional.
What happens if weather conditions change?
We monitor forecasts throughout the day and post any postponements or location changes before start time.
Are meetups suitable for beginners?
Yes. We explain basic sky navigation, telescope etiquette, and what you’re seeing in clear, beginner-friendly language.
How are meetup announcements shared?
Updates are posted on the Meetups page and repeated through our regular club announcement channels.

If you’re still unsure, start with the next session and a quick read of our latest sky notes—you’ll be in good company.

Club calendar

Upcoming meetups

Three upcoming observing sessions, ordered by what is happening soonest. Times and activity notes are updated as local sky conditions change.

  1. Nearest meetup

    Lunar Terminator Walk & Crater Sketch Night

    Timing
    Observing theme
    First-quarter Moon relief and shadow transitions
    Venue cue
    Riverside Community Field · North lawn near the low red lamps

    What to expect: a guided telescope queue, short crater-orientation walkthrough, and a quiet sketch interval suitable for first-time observers.

    View meetup details

  2. Jupiter Moons and Cloud Bands Session

    Timing
    Observing theme
    Galilean moon tracking and steady-air viewing
    Venue cue
    Hillcrest Library roof deck · East-side setup rail

    What to expect: short finder-scope setup help, alternating binocular and telescope stations, and practical notes on seeing conditions.

    View meetup details

  3. Winter Constellation Orientation Walk

    Timing
    Observing theme
    Orion region, sky navigation, and seasonal star-hops
    Venue cue
    Meadow Path Trailhead · Open clearing beside the map board

    What to expect: paced naked-eye orientation, constellation line-of-sight practice, and a beginner-friendly Q&A before wrap-up.

    View meetup details
Read sky notes