Activities

SOLAR OBSERVING

Come observe the sun through a number of solar filters. There is far more happening on the surface of the sun than you might have thought.

RAINY DAY ASTRONOMY

The foggy days of Maine are the perfect time to spend some time with us in the shop, learning all about astronomy. We offer a variety of inexpensive, fun and entertaining programs, please call ahead, as space is limited.

STAR PARTIES

Star Parties can be scheduled in advance with arrangements for rain dates. We will transport the telescopes to your location, set them up, and lead you through the sky. Our goal is getting as many people involved in using the telescopes as possible. The basic star party includes four telescopes; a 5” equatorially mounted refractor, a 10” Dobsonian, and two easy-to-use 4.5” Star Blasts. Parties typically last between 90 minutes and two hours, and are suitable for groups of up to 30 people. Parties must take place on the Island, during the summer season. The basic fee is $150 and a non-refundable reservation fee is required. Please see our reservation policy for details

RESERVATION POLICY

            (for our Star Parties & Observatory)
    Reservations are good for a single 4 day period. Reservations are given on a priority basis due to the unpredictable nature of the weather. Specific nights cannot be reserved. Reservations are available Monday through Thursday.
    The first available clear evenings is given to the guests staying at Bobcat Cottage.
    The second reservation can be secured for a nonrefundable deposit of $50.

The third reservation can be secured for a nonrefundable deposit of $30.

The fourth reservation can be secured for a nonrefundable deposit of $20.

Refunds/cancellations: If the event cannot be held due to weather the reservation fee will be returned.

EASY-TO-USE TELESCOPE RENTAL

Kid friendly Star Blast telescopes are available for rental on a daily and weekly basis. The rental includes basic instruction, which is provided at the shop. The rental fee is $7 per day plus a one time set-up fee of $28. Half the rental fee may be credited toward the purchase of the telescope. Combine this with a group, or private lesson for one of the best introductions to astronomy available anywhere.

CLASSES

Island Astronomy is working with Elementary School teachers to develop three courses qualifying for CEU credit. The first course, "The Foundations of Astronomy", covering the K-4 Learning Results, was completed at the end of 2003. The second course addressing the 5-8 standards, will be held starting in April of 2004. the first two courses are designed to develop competence in, and enthusiasm for, the subject of astronomy. The third course, planned for the Fall of 2004, will be dedicated to classroom activities.

PRIVATE LESSONS

Private, individually tailored lessons, can be scheduled by appointment. The in-shop rate for lessons is $30 for a half-hour, $50 for a full hour (spring and fall only.) The out-of-shop rate is $65/hour including travel time. June through September, private lessons are only available in the mornings.

Contact Information: Telephone: 207-244-9477

Postal Address:

Peter & Linda Lord,

Island Astronomy P.O. Box 249 Bernard, ME 04612-0249

Electronic mail:

info@islandastro.com

Contact webmaster with any problems navigating this site: webmaster@islandastro.com