Star Spangled 4th
July 4, 2020
We celebrate Independence Day with this event. Free parking and admission.
2nd Anniversary Celebration
July 31, 2020
Hosted by Fort Roberdeau and Raining Blue.
Enjoy live music, refreshments, and an open-air concert and picnic feel as we celebrate two years and of astronomy education in Sinking Valley. Bring camp chairs or blankets to stake out your place beneath the stars as the skies grow dark. Back by popular demand, local band Raining Blue will serenade guests throughout the evening, while you make your way to outdoor telescope platforms, or venture inside the Mt. Lion Observatory to behold wonders impossible to see with the naked eye.
A mid-summer event like no other, it’s an evening of music, friendship, and science you won’t want to miss.
Distaff Days
September 12, 2020
Women’s 18th century skills will be shared through living history demonstrations and hands-on activities. Discover the domestic skills women used to maintain the home.
Haunted Tours
October 10, 2020
Come tour the fort and grounds like you never experienced before! A haunting tradition continues this year. An eerie night look into “living history” with characters from Altoona High School Astronomy Club .
18th Century Dinner
October 25, 2020
Accept our invitation to dine in the splendor of the Philadelphia Room on this Sunday autumn afternoon. Reservations are required.
Veterans Recognition
October 31, 2020
Rangers posted at Fort Roberdeau became pensioned veterans after the war. Fort Roberdeau will honor all veterans with a recognition program.
Ranger Skills Weekend
2021
After a winter break, Rangers sharpened the skills needed to patrol the frontier and protect the lead miners and settlers. Join us for a hands-on opportunity to hone your Ranger skills!
Rev War Days
2021
Visit an 18th century field camp. Become immersed in camp life and a story line based on local events. A daily battle will be held each afternoon. Free parking and admission.
Stars of the Colonials.
The sky lore of American Colonists and Native Americans is as rich and colorful as the history of our country itself. Under warmer weather and a late spring sky, it’s a night for all to enjoy!
Open Sky Watch Nights
There is always night sky action a the Observatory, even in months without large events! Bring a blanket, camp chairs, and a flashlight. (Red cellophane is available to adapt your flashlights to night vision mode free of charge.) Binoculars and telescopes are always welcome. Learn from he pros of Starlight Astronomy Club, and embrace the challenge of findinf objects on your own.
Events begin at dusk. Cost $2 adult, $1 student.
Exploring the Night Sky with Lasers
Some of the best night sky exploration is done with your own two eyes, and bright lasers are invaluable in directing your guests attention to specific spots above. PArticipants will learn the do’s and don’ts of safe astronomy laser use. Identify easy to find patterns on the sky, and keep their laser at evening’s end for backyard astronomy sessions of their own!
Mr. Tom Kasner does invaluable work at the Mt. Lion Observatory, and you will enjoy his mix of telescope and night sky knowledge. As classic an astronomy educator as you’ll find.