Photo by Robert C. Hutchinson

ASU Astronomy Open House
Arizona State University, Tempe
On the last Friday of every month, dozens of Valley residents gather on the observation deck of the Bateman Physical Sciences Center H-wing at Arizona State University’s Tempe Campus to see what’s new in the stars. The free public event, which lasts from roughly 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., features lectures, physics demonstrations, astronomy quizzes and constellation sky tours. But since the event is hosted by ASU’s School of Earth and Space Exploration, it only takes place while school is in session. Info: eagle.la.asu.edu/openhouse.

Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory
2757 E. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert
The Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory, with its $20,000 Richey-Cretien telescope, is the Valley’s newest stargazing facility. Located at the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, the $100,000 observatory sits on the edge of a five-acre lake. Since it opened in late 2006, the facility welcomes guests every Friday and Saturday evening at nightfall. The Rotary Centennial Observatory is unique in the sense that it is owned by the town of Gilbert and managed by the East Valley Astronomy Club, so attendance is free (though a $3 donation is recommended per person).
Info: eastvalleyastronomy.org/grco/obs.asp.

High Desert Park
Black Canyon City
Terri Finch, president of the Phoenix Astronomical Society, says the best way to see the stars through the city lights is to check out the local astronomy clubs and attend one of their observation sessions. One site this club uses frequently is High Desert Park in Black Canyon City. If you go to the park on your own time, Finch recommends never going alone – it’s easy to get lost under the night sky. You can join the Phoenix Astronomical Society at High Desert Park on July 7, from sundown to moonrise. Info: pasaz.org.

Paradise Valley Community College
18401 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix
The Phoenix Astronomical Society also hosts Star Parties every month or so at Paradise Valley Community College on Union Hills Drive and 32nd Street. These star parties give Valley residents the chance to come out and learn how to use their telescopes. Info: pasaz.org.

Two Trees
Between Sedona and Cottonwood
The Phoenix Astronomical Society and Sedona Astronomy Club both recommend this site between Sedona and Cottonwood. But be aware that some sites, including Two Trees, require a small fee, including a Red Rocks Pass ($5 per day or $20 per year). The Phoenix Astronomical Society will host a Deep Sky Star Party at the site on July 14. Visit the society’s website (pasaz.org) to RSVP.