Statewide Astronomy Night at Wessling Observatory

Join the Wessling Observatory for an exciting night of astronomy! Learn what noteworthy stars, constellations, and planets are visible in the evening skies of early April; view various telescopes, how they differ, and how to use them; take a tour of the heavens with Observatory staff, using a high-energy 'laser'; learn how to "star-hop" to various objects in the sky; view deep sky objects thorugh various telescopes; and learn the basics of astro-photography! 

Constructed in 2005, the S.F Wessling Observatory (SFWO) is owned by the Newaygo Conservation District as part of the Kropscott Farm Environmental Center. It is located approximately six miles north of Fremont, MI and operated by the Newaygo County Dark Sky Astronomers (NCDSA.)

The Observatory provides regional amateur astronomers and the general public with DARK skies, and the opportunity to observe and study our amazing universe. It is open to the public from April through October, every year. During these months, two (or more) public Star Parties are scheduled and hosted by the NCDSA. Dates and times for 2025 Star Parties will be posted on our website. 

The Observatory houses four permanent Newtonian scopes with mirrors of 10”, 12.5”, 18” and 22”. Also available are several 8” and 11” Schmidt Cassegrain computerized scopes, plus a specialty-scope dedicated to astro-photography. NCDSA members also have their personal scopes on-site and available. The SFWO is a ‘hands-on-observatory’ allowing individuals to operate the scopes under the supervision of the NCDSA members.