SFW Observatory-Fee Structure


Group Rates-
Club or organization, grade level of school groups, Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts, and 4-H Clubs

A maximum of 30 people can be accommodated at one time, and greatest benefit is realized when groups are kept under 15-20 persons.

$50.00 per group (30 individuals or less) per session

The fee for youth groups may be covered by a grant from the Gerber Foundation.

Come equipped. Flashlights will be helpful for finding your way around in the dark, but should be kept directed toward the ground so as not to interfere with observing activities. Insect repellent and warm clothing (particularly for feet, head and hands) are strongly encouraged during appropriate seasons. Parts of the observatory are heated and cooled but the main telescope area in the building is open to the night air.


Star Party Open House -
Admission for visitors' nights is $5 for Adults, $2 for 17 years and younger, and free for children under 5 years of age.

Come equipped. Flashlights will be helpful for finding your way around in the dark, but should be kept directed toward the ground so as not to interfere with observing activities. Insect repellent and warm clothing (particularly for feet, head and hands) are strongly encouraged during appropriate seasons. Parts of the observatory are heated and cooled but the main telescope area in the building is open to the night air.


Educational Outreach-
Club or organization, grade level of school groups, Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts, and 4-H Clubs

$50.00 per group (30 individuals or less) per session

The fee for youth groups may be covered by a grant from the Gerber Foundation.

Call the Newaygo County Dark Sky Astronomers secretary (at the Newaygo Conservation District) at 231-924-2420 ext. 5 to make reservations.

Please keep in mind that the quality of your observation will depend on weather and viewing conditions. SFW Observatory can not guarantee pre-scheduled events when conditions are not suitable. With every event we automatically schedule a make-up date. If the make-up date does not work out as well, we will reschedule again. Thank you for your understanding.
Stephen F. Wessling Observatory
Owned and operated by the Newaygo Conservation District

Located at 6523 West Baseline Road, Fremont, Michigan 49412