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Estes Park Memorial Observatory, Estes Park Travel Guide

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Explore the universe at Estes Park Memorial Observatory: Educational stargazing in the heart of the Rockies. Open to all, free of charge!

The Estes Park Memorial Observatory is a community observatory offering educational programs and stargazing sessions. Founded in memory of Thomas and Christian Connolly, it aims to inspire interest in science through astronomy, offering a unique blend of celestial wonder and natural beauty in the heart of Estes Park.

A brief summary to Estes Park Memorial Observatory

  • Monday 7 pm-9:30 pm
  • Friday 7 pm-9:30 pm
  • Saturday 7 pm-9:30 pm
  • Sunday 7 pm-9:30 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Estes Park Memorial Observatory.

  • Check the Estes Park Memorial Observatory website for the most up-to-date schedule of events and viewing sessions.
  • Reservations are required for private stargazing sessions and should be made at least one week in advance.
  • The observatory typically closes for two nights before and on the night of a full moon due to brightness affecting visibility.
  • Consider visiting during meteor showers for a spectacular celestial display.
  • The observatory is located near hiking trails and scenic spots, making it a perfect stop for those exploring the outdoors.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are already in Estes Park, the observatory is located at 1600 Manford Ave. Walking is a viable option if you are nearby. Head towards Manford Avenue and follow it until you reach the observatory. Enjoy the scenic views along the way.

  • Public Transport

    Estes Park offers a free shuttle service, The Peak, during the summer season (late May through late October). Check the Town of Estes Park website for the current routes and schedules to see if there is a stop near your location. From the shuttle stop, follow local streets to Manford Avenue and the observatory. There is no cost for the shuttle.

  • Taxi/Ride Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Estes Park. A ride from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the observatory is approximately 2.5 miles and costs around $10-$15. Confirm availability and pricing with the service.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 1600 Manford Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517. Parking at the observatory is free. From downtown Estes Park, take US-36 W/W Elkhorn Ave, then turn left onto Manford Ave. The observatory will be on your right. During the peak season, parking in Estes Park can be challenging. Consider using the free Park & Ride at the Estes Park Events Complex (1125 Rooftop Way) and taking the free shuttle to a location closer to the observatory. From there, you can walk or take a taxi/ride share.

Discover more about Estes Park Memorial Observatory

The Estes Park Memorial Observatory (EPMO) is more than just a place to look at the stars; it's a community resource dedicated to fostering scientific education and offering a unique experience for visitors. Located in Estes Park, Colorado, near the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, the observatory provides a gateway to the sky for people of all ages.The observatory was founded by Mike and Carole Connolly and their daughter, Michele Johnson, in memory of their sons and brothers, Thomas and Christian Connolly, who tragically passed away in 2005. With a family background deeply rooted in science, math, and astronomy, the Connollys envisioned the observatory as a place to honor their loved ones while sharing their passion for the cosmos with the community.EPMO hosts various events throughout the year in collaboration with the local school system, the Estes Valley Astronomical Society, and Rocky Mountain National Park. These events include educational lectures on astronomy, cosmology, astrophotography, and special astronomical events like comet fly-bys. The observatory also offers private and group viewing sessions, allowing visitors to observe deep-space objects through high-quality equipment. The observatory features a 16-foot dome and a classroom for lectures and educational videos.The observatory boasts a 16-inch Ritchey-Chretien telescope mounted on a Paramount ME II robotic mount, ensuring precise pointing to celestial objects. The facility is available to the public free of charge, with donations welcomed. The Angels Above Foundation operates the observatory with the help of dedicated volunteers.

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