The Turner Farm

CONTACT INFORMATION: Open dawn to dusk except for speciality, after-hours events hosted only on Friday nights
703-324-2820 TTY 711
925 Springvale Road
Great Falls, Virginia 22066
Sebastian Arnez
Turner Farm Observatory Educator

Turner Farm Park Events

Department Resources

Telescope Observing for Beginners

04/24/2024 8:00 pm

(8-Adult) This course covers the basics of observing the night sky and objects with a telescope and astronomy resources. Class will provide hands-on observation with telescopes weather permitting. Attendees can bring their own telescopes to use and receive assistance. Supplements the “Introduction to Telescopes” class but can be taken independently. The course is held…

The Sun - Our Neighborhood Star

05/04/2024 11:00 am

(5-Adult) Learn what causes the Sun to shine, the Sun's life cycle, and how the Sun compares to other stars. Discuss features on the Sun and how to view the Sun safely. A classroom discussion is accompanied by an observing session of the Sun with solar telescopes, weather permitting. The course is held rain or clear skies in the Roll-Top Observatory at Turner Farm…

Fairfax Poet Laureate - Poetry Beneath the Stars

05/04/2024 7:30 pm

(8-Adult) Write a poem while gazing at the night sky to see if you can find a shooting star. During this program you will be asked to dig deep and contemplate the cosmos through poetic form. Examples of star-gazing poetry and writing prompts will be provided. This event will include telescope viewing in the Roll Top Observatory, weather permitting. Hosted by ArtsFairfax…

Night Sky Tour at the Roll-Top Observatory

05/13/2024 8:00 pm

(8-Adult) Take a tour of planets, constellations, stars, nebulas, and galaxies in the night sky at the Roll-Top observatory at Turner Farm Park using telescopes or just your eyes. In case of inclement weather, we will discuss and show images of objects that could be observed in clear skies. No knowledge of astronomy is needed. The course is held rain or clear skies in…

Basics of Birding

05/18/2024 8:00 am

(10-Adult) Watching birds is a great way to connect with the natural world around us. Tour the park on foot developing your birding skills with the help of a printed guide and learn about other birding resources in the classroom. Binoculars recommended; a few pairs will be available for use. Children ages 10-16 must be accompanied by registered adult. The class will…

Introduction to Astronomy

05/20/2024 8:00 pm

(8-Adult) This course provides a general introduction to some fundamentals of astronomy and the universe. We will discuss the basic types of astronomical objects from the small to the large, the motions of the planets and stars, and interesting phenomena in the night sky. A classroom discussion is followed by an observatory session with telescopes, weather permitting.…

Fairfax Poet Laureate - Poetry Beneath the Stars

08/17/2024 7:30 pm

Write a poem while gazing at the night sky to see if you can find a shooting star. The event is free but registration is recommended.

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