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2025 Stellafane Convention Schedule

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Thursday, July 24, 2025

 8:00am
-
 5:00pm
Seminar or Workshop

Hartness House Hosted by Dan Lorraine & Tom Spirock Workshop (Separate Registration)
Noon
-
 4:00pm
Operating Hours

Entry Gate  Please don't arrive before Noon!
 2:00pm
-
 5:30pm
Telescope Making

Outside North of the Pavilion Hosted by Jim Flood 
 3:00pm
-
10:00pm
Operating Hours

Entry Gate  Please don't arrive before 3:00!
 6:00pm
-
 9:00pm
Seminar or Workshop

Hartness House Hosted by Dan Lorraine & Tom Spirock Dinner (Separate Registration)
 8:00pm
-
 9:00pm
Telescope Making

Stellafane Clubhouse Presented by Francis O'Reilly 
 8:30pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing Fields Coordinated by Eileen Myers Telescopes & Binoculars
 9:00pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing  Weather Permitting
 9:00pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing  Weather Permitting
 9:30pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing  Weather Permitting

Friday, July 25, 2025

 8:00am
Operating Hours

Entry Gate  Gate Opens
 9:00am
-
 4:00pm
Observing

Simoni Observatory Solar Observing Weather Permitting
 9:00am
-
 6:00pm
Observing

Open, Solar Observing  Weather Permitting
 9:00am
-
10:30am
Youth

McGregor Observatory Library Ben Roberts & John Holloran Ages 12-18
 9:00am
-
Noon
More to Explore

Meet North Side of Food Tent Led by Katie Shusdock 
 9:00am
-
 5:00pm
More to Explore

Outside the Flanders Pavillion  
10:00am
-
 6:00pm
Operating Hours

Bus Stops  Bus Stops: Pine Island, Food Tent, Pink Clubhouse
10:00am
-
 6:00pm
Observing

Open, Solar Observing  Weather Permitting
10:00am
-
 4:00pm
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales Org. by Bob Trzcinski ATM Demo Hours
10:00am
-
11:00am
Telescope Making

Small Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Michael O'Gara 
10:00am
-
10:30am
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Rick Hunter Intro & Grinding
11:00am
-
Noon
Everyone

Flanders Pavilion Presented by Gregory Caicco & William Jon McCann 
11:00am
-
11:30am
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Junie Esslinger Making Dental Stone Tools
11:30am
-
Noon
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Phil Rounseville Making Pitch Laps
11:30am
-
12:15pm
More to Explore

Tent by Stellafane Clubhouse Presented by Eli Goldfine 
12:30pm
-
 1:30pm
Beginners Topic

Meet at M44 (Green Shed) near Clubhouse Kaitlynn Goulette 
 1:00pm
-
 2:00pm
Intermediate Topic

Flanders Pavilion Presented by Dr. Brian Kloppenborg 
 1:00pm
-
 4:00pm
Youth

Bunkhouse Presented by Johny Colt & Dominic Fucile 
 1:00pm
-
 1:45pm
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Francis O'Reilly Polishing & Figuring
 1:00pm
-
 2:30pm
More to Explore

Meet at North Side of Food Tent Led by George Springston 
 2:00pm
-
 3:00pm
Observing

Observing Fields  Please set up your Solar Scope and Share
 2:00pm
-
 5:00pm
Observing
 2:00pm
-
 3:00pm
Intermediate Topic

Flanders Pavilion Presented by Roxanne Kamin – IOTA 
 2:00pm
-
 4:00pm
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales With Dave Kelly & Doug Arion Testing (Bring your own mirror)
 2:00pm
-
 4:00pm
Telescope Making

Small Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Michael O'Gara 
 2:00pm
-
 4:00pm
Telescope Making

Outside North of the Pavilion Hosted by Jim Flood 
 3:00pm
-
 4:00pm
Beginners Topic

Flanders Pavilion Preseneted by Bruce Berger 
 4:00pm
-
 5:00pm
Beginners Topic

Flanders Pavilion Presented by Dr. Kristine Larsen 
 4:15pm
-
 6:00pm
Museum Open

Hartness House Hosted by Matt Considine, Curator 
 4:30pm
-
 5:30pm
More to Explore

Tent by the Stellafane Clubhouse Hosted by Meghan Morse 
 5:00pm
-
 8:00pm
Telescope Competition

Clubhouse  Optical and Mechanical Registration
 6:30pm
-
 7:30pm
Everyone

Friday Night Movie Flanders Pavilion 
 7:30pm
Major Event

Flanders Pavilion Bruce Beford, MC Short presentations by Convention Attendees
 8:00pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing  Weather Permitting
 8:00pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing  Weather Permitting
 8:30pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing Fields Coordinated by Eileen Myers Telescopes & Binoculars
 9:00pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing  Weather Permitting
10:00pm
Operating Hours

Entry Gate  Gate Closes
10:00pm
Telescope Competition

Fields around Clubhouse  Optical Competition Begins

Saturday, July 26, 2025

 7:00am
Operating Hours

Entry Gate  Gate Opens
 7:00am
-
Noon
Major Event

Swap Table Area - North of Main Camping Area  
 8:00am
-
 9:30am
Telescope Competition

Clubhouse  Mechanical (and Optical if needed) Registration
 8:00am
-
 5:00pm
Observing

Simoni Observatory Solar observing Weather Permitting
 8:00am
-
 6:00pm
Observing

Open, Solar Observing  Weather Permitting
 8:00am
-
 6:00pm
Observing

Open, Solar Observing  Weather Permitting
 9:00am
-
 5:00pm
Operating Hours

Bus Stops  Bus Stops: Pine Island, Food Tent, Pink Clubhouse
 9:00am
-
10:30am
Youth

McGregor Observatory Library Ben Roberts & John Holloran Ages 12-18
 9:00am
-
 5:00pm
More to Explore

Outside the Flanders Pavillion  
10:00am
-
 1:00pm
Telescope Competition

Fields around Clubhouse  Mechanical Competition
10:00am
-
 5:00pm
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales Org. by Bob Trzcinski ATM Demo Hours
10:00am
-
11:00am
Telescope Making

Small Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Michael O'Gara 
10:00am
-
10:30am
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Rick Hunter Intro & Grinding
11:00am
-
Noon
Beginners Topic

Flanders Pavilion Presented by Bruce Beford 
11:00am
-
Noon
Youth

McGregor Observatory Space Rocks Ages 5-12; Limited to first 20
11:00am
-
11:30am
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Junie Esslinger Making Dental Stone Tools
11:30am
-
12:30pm
Beginners Topic

Meet at Front of Clubhouse Led by David McGaw 
11:30am
-
Noon
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Phil Rounseville Making Pitch Laps
12:30pm
-
 1:30pm
Beginners Topic

Meet at M44 (Green Shed) near Clubhouse Kaitlynn Goulette 
 1:00pm
-
 2:00pm
Everyone

Flanders Pavilion Presented by Mario Motta 
 1:00pm
-
 1:45pm
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Francis O'Reilly Polishing & Figuring
 2:00pm
-
 3:00pm
Observing

Observing Fields  Please set up your Solar Scope and Share
 2:00pm
-
 5:00pm
Observing
 2:00pm
-
 3:00pm
Everyone
 2:00pm
-
 3:00pm
Youth

McGregor Observatory Space Make & Take Ages 5-12; Limited to first 20
 2:00pm
-
 4:00pm
Telescope Making

Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Ken Slater Dobsonian Basics
 2:00pm
-
 4:00pm
Telescope Making

Small Tent by T-Shirt Sales Presented by Michael O'Gara 
 3:00pm
-
 4:00pm
Everyone

Flanders Pavilion Presented by Young Astronomers 
 4:00pm
-
 5:00pm
Everyone

Flanders Pavilion Presented by Larry Mitchell 
 7:00pm
Major Event

Amphitheater (Flanders Pavilion if rain)  Includes Keynote, Shadowgram, Raffle & Awards
 8:30pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing Fields Coordinated by Eileen Myers Telescopes & Binoculars
 9:00pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing  Weather Permitting
 9:00pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing  Weather Permitting
 9:00pm
-
Midnight
Observing

Observing  Weather Permitting
10:00pm
Telescope Competition

Fields around Clubhouse  Optical Competition (Only if not held Friday)

Sunday, July 27, 2025

 9:00am
-
Noon
Museum Open

Hartness House Hosted by Matt Considine, Curator 
10:30am
-
11:30am
Observing

Hillside below McGregor Coordinated by Eileen Myers Award Pins Only

— Major Convention Events —

Friday Evening Informal Talks

Fri 7:30 pm - Flanders PavilionBruce Beford, MCShort presentations by Convention Attendees

10 minute or under informal talks from convention attendees. If you wish to make a presentation, please register on the convention main page.

Swap Tables

Sat 7:00 am - 12:00 pmSwap Table Area - North of Main Camping Area

The Swap Tables (located at the northeast edge of the main camping/parking area) are provided to give amateurs an opportunity to trade, buy or sell their surplus astronomical and telescope related items. The Swap Table area will be open from 7:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

 

POLICY OF THE SPRINGFIELD TELESCOPE MAKERS REGARDING COMMERCIALISM
AND THE SWAP TABLES AT THE CONVENTION

The Springfield Telescope Makers, Inc. has clarified its policy regarding commercialism and Swap Table sales at the Stellafane Convention. For the sake of historical continuity, to preserve the uniqueness of the Stellafane Convention and to encourage Conventioneers to build their own instruments, the Springfield Telescope Makers, Inc. does not allow commercial sales, of any kind, at the Stellafane Convention. All swap table sales must comply, in concept, with the above objective but are also specifically subject to the following criteria:

  1. Only surplus astronomical, telescope and telescope making related items may be sold.
  2. Each person will be allowed 16 square feet of table or ground space.
  3. Items which have the appearance of being specifically purchased or manufactured for sale at the Swap Tables may not be sold.
  4. All sales must take place within the designated Swap Table area only between 7 a.m. and noon, the Saturday of the Stellafane Convention.

The Springfield Telescope Makers, Inc. may choose to grant a limited exception to the above policies to astronomy related organizations for their fundraising. Any request for an exemption must be made, in writing, at least one month prior to the Convention. If granted, the President of the Springfield Telescope Makers, Inc. will notify the requesting organization in writing.

Any member of the Springfield Telescope Makers, Inc. has the authority to determine whether a party is in compliance with the established regulations. Any person who is found to be in violation of the stated policies will be required to comply. Failing compliance, the offending party will be asked to leave the Convention and may be escorted from the premises by Convention security.

The Springfield Telescope Makers, Inc. encourages those with questions regarding this policy to contact the Club via the Stellafane web page (https://Stellafane.org). During the Convention, any questions regarding this policy, the appropriateness of items being displayed, or any information being disseminated, should be directed to a member of the Springfield Telescope Makers, Inc.

Saturday Evening Program & Keynote Talk

Sat 7:00 pm - Amphitheater (Flanders Pavilion if rain)Includes Keynote, Shadowgram, Raffle & Awards

The Saturday evening program will begin at 7:00 pm in the hillside amphitheater. (In case of inclement weather, the program will be held inside the Flanders Pavilion). Mario Motta, of the Springfield Telescope Makers, will be master of ceremonies.

  • Greetings, announcements, and Raffle Drawings
  • Stellafane Shadowgram by Dr. Kristine Larsen
    I Don’t Wanna Grow Up, I’m a Stellafane Kid...
  • Presentation of Telescope Competition Awards
  • Stellafane Keynote by Dr. Stephen Sekula:
     Astronomy Without Light: Revealing the Unseen Universe

— Telescope Competition —

Telescope Competition

Fri 5:00 pm - 8:00 pmClubhouseOptical and Mechanical Registration
Fri 10:00 pm - Fields around ClubhouseOptical Competition Begins
Sat 8:00 am - 9:30 amClubhouseMechanical (and Optical if needed) Registration
Sat 10:00 am - 1:00 pmFields around ClubhouseMechanical Competition
Sat 10:00 pm - Fields around ClubhouseOptical Competition (Only if not held Friday)

Details are on the Telescope Competition Page

— Telescope Making —

Star Test Hands-on Activity

Thu 8:00 pm - 9:00 pmStellafane ClubhousePresented by Francis O'Reilly

Join us for a captivating one-hour class on Star Testing Astronomical Telescopes at the Stellafane Pink Clubhouse! This hands-on session will provide a unique opportunity to learn and observe the techniques of star testing, a crucial method for evaluating the optical quality of telescopes. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the process, offering live demonstrations, weather permitting. Please note that telescopes registered for the optical competition that weekend will not be tested. Don't miss this chance to enhance your astronomical knowledge and skills!

Telescope Making Demo

Fri 10:00 am - 4:00 pmTent by T-Shirt SalesOrg. by Bob TrzcinskiATM Demo Hours
Fri 10:00 am - 10:30 amTent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Rick HunterIntro & Grinding
Fri 11:00 am - 11:30 amTent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Junie EsslingerMaking Dental Stone Tools
Fri 11:30 am - 12:00 pmTent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Phil RounsevilleMaking Pitch Laps
Fri 1:00 pm - 1:45 pmTent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Francis O'ReillyPolishing & Figuring
Fri 2:00 pm - 4:00 pmTent by T-Shirt SalesWith Dave Kelly & Doug ArionTesting (Bring your own mirror)
Sat 10:00 am - 5:00 pmTent by T-Shirt SalesOrg. by Bob TrzcinskiATM Demo Hours
Sat 10:00 am - 10:30 amTent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Rick HunterIntro & Grinding
Sat 11:00 am - 11:30 amTent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Junie EsslingerMaking Dental Stone Tools
Sat 11:30 am - 12:00 pmTent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Phil RounsevilleMaking Pitch Laps
Sat 1:00 pm - 1:45 pmTent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Francis O'ReillyPolishing & Figuring
Sat 2:00 pm - 4:00 pmTent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Ken SlaterDobsonian Basics

Learn about working on mirrors at every stage of grinding, polishing and testing. Experienced ATMs will help explain each step of the process and answer any questions you may have.

Bring your own mirror for testing between 2:00 and 4:00 PM on Friday - 12½-inch Max Diameter.

Try it Yourself! Hands on Grinding

Fri 10:00 am - 11:00 amSmall Tent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Michael O'Gara
Fri 2:00 pm - 4:00 pmSmall Tent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Michael O'Gara
Sat 10:00 am - 11:00 amSmall Tent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Michael O'Gara
Sat 2:00 pm - 4:00 pmSmall Tent by T-Shirt SalesPresented by Michael O'Gara

Try it Yourself! This is a HANDS-ON mirror making demonstration - Gain first-hand experience grinding a mirrors.

Telescope Clinic

Thu 2:00 pm - 5:30 pmOutside North of the PavilionHosted by Jim Flood
Fri 2:00 pm - 4:00 pmOutside North of the PavilionHosted by Jim Flood
New this Year! Your telescope is not quite right or difficult to use, and you’d like some help troubleshooting the problem? Bring it to our new telescope clinic and Stellafane members will work with you to help you get your telescope back in good operating condition. We can provide some general cleaning of optics as needed and try to replace missing bits, tripod legs, nuts and bolts and screws. If we have the missing part in our collection of spare parts that your telescope needs, you can have it. (Contributions to our new Telescope Clinic’s collection of spare parts are welcome.) We can also provide introductory instruction on how to collimate your telescope and how to set up and use your telescope and choose eyepieces.

— Talks & Events for All Levels —

Nurturing the Night: How the Dark Skies of Vermont Shelter Healing and the Imagination

Fri 11:00 am - 12:00 pmFlanders PavilionPresented by Gregory Caicco & William Jon McCann

In this discussion we will enter the history, medicine and poetics of the night as essential for environmental and human wellbeing. We will honor Vermont's significant efforts to date in looking after its star-soaked nights, and explore ways to further tend the darkness.

A Sneak Peak at the documentary film "Stellafane and Beyond"

Fri 6:30 pm - 7:30 pmFriday Night MovieFlanders Pavilion
This 30 minute cut of the feature length documentary dives into the important role Stellafane plays in the advancement in technology of telescope making for both amateurs and professionals. Meet the filmmakers and be the first to see this stellar film featuring members of the Springfield Telescope Makers, and Convention goers who's lives and careers have been shaped by this annual gathering of telescope makers.

Southern Objects, or "Things You Can't See From Up Here"

Sat 1:00 pm - 2:00 pmFlanders PavilionPresented by Mario Motta

Mario Motta has taken many images of the Southern Sky from Naples, South West Florida. While attending the Winter Star Party in 2023 he noted that many observers were unaware of the fine gems to see while down south, and compiled an observing list for the Florida Keys. They also became the subject of the article “Winter Observing in the South” that Mario wrote for the February 2024 issue of Sky & Telescope magazine. These objects have since become the observing list for subsequent Winter Star Parties. In addition, while attending the "Starlight Conference" in New Zealand as the keynote speaker in October of 2024, he observed a number of far southern objects with a C14 from the South Island, and also met an amateur Adrien Barrajon who had imaged many of these objects but had less than adequate processing but with excellent subs frames saved. They have since collaborated, and Mario has reprocessed many of his deep southern objects. In this talk Mario will show you a variety of far Southern Sky objects, or "Things You Can't See From Up Here".

WAS Is! The History of the Westport Astronomical Society from 1975 to 2025 and Beyond

Sat 2:00 pm - 3:00 pmFlanders PavilionPresented by Phil Harrington

Phil Harrington’s “WAS Is” presentation commemorates the Westport Astronomical Society’s 50th anniversary, reflecting on its 1975 founding. Driven by physics teacher Fred Bump, students, parents, and townsfolk revived the 1960s Rolnick Observatory—built on a former Nike radar site—and forged a new volunteer club that has grown to one of New England’s most active groups. Harrington celebrates five decades of public outreach, discovery, and community spirit.

A Panel with the Next Generation of Astronomers

Sat 3:00 pm - 4:00 pmFlanders PavilionPresented by Young Astronomers

Presented by Kaitlynn Goulette, Eli Goldfine, John Holleran, and Qijia Zhou
A panel of young astronomers will discuss their experiences in space and astronomy, as well as their dreams for the future. They will share how they first became interested in the field, what inspires them to keep exploring, and the challenges they've faced along the way. This discussion will offer a unique glimpse into the next generation of scientists and their hopes for advancing our understanding of the universe.

The 2025 Visual Observing Olympics - "A Little Bit of Everything"

Sat 4:00 pm - 5:00 pmFlanders PavilionPresented by Larry Mitchell
Larry will consider the universe as it is, and was, and present discoveries about objects on the observing list. One of his main astronomical goals is for people to understand the miracle they are privileged to see with their own eyes.

— Beginners Talks —

Introduction to Stellafane

Sat 11:00 am - 12:00 pmFlanders PavilionPresented by Bruce Beford

Are you familiar with these terms: “The Pink”, “Tent Talks” or “The Turret”? If not, if this is your first time attending the Stellafane Convention, or if you are returning and want to learn more about who the Springfield Telescope Makers are, as well as what is going on during the Convention, then this presentation is for you. Topics include, but are not limited to: A short history of Stellafane, a description of our site, including the buildings and landmarks, descriptions of the scheduled talks and activities, services available at Stellafane, local services off site, etc., in addition to answering any questions you may have about the Convention.

Solar System Walk

Fri 12:30 pm - 1:30 pmMeet at M44 (Green Shed) near ClubhouseKaitlynn Goulette
Sat 12:30 pm - 1:30 pmMeet at M44 (Green Shed) near ClubhouseKaitlynn Goulette

To illustrate the vast size of outer space, the Springfield Telescope Makers have constructed a scale model of the solar system, based on the Sun being 12 inches in diameter. At that scale, the Earth would be approximately 1/10 of an inch in diameter and 107 feet from the Sun. Jupiter would be 1.2 inches in diameter and approximately 560 feet from the Sun.

The “Solar System Walk” begins behind the Pink Clubhouse and proceeds down the road going towards the Stellafane camping area. At the appropriate distance from the scale model of the Sun, there are stations with the appropriate planet, built to scale, and a short description of each planet. The Solar System walk can be taken on your own at any time during the Convention. However, a guided walk is available at the times mentioned above, when a docent will provide additional information about the “Solar System Walk” and each particular planet. The walk takes approximately ¾ of an hour if you walk all the way to the planet Neptune, with a total distance of 3,232 feet or a little over ½ of a mile.

Telescope Field Walk

Sat 11:30 am - 12:30 pmMeet at Front of ClubhouseLed by David McGaw

During the “Telescope Field Walk” an experienced Amateur Telescope Maker will guide small groups through the fields around the Pink Clubhouse, where the telescopes that will be participating in the mechanical competition will be set up. Your guide will describe the various types of optical designs and mounting configurations that will be on display, point out the subtle details that go into award winning telescopes and be available to answer your questions.

Nightscapes

Fri 3:00 pm - 4:00 pmFlanders PavilionPreseneted by Bruce Berger

Bruce will share the inspiration behind his interest in NightScape photography, highlight some of the projects he has worked on, and provide insights on how to get started in this exciting hobby.

Solar Observing and the AAVSO Solar SIG

Fri 4:00 pm - 5:00 pmFlanders PavilionPresented by Dr. Kristine Larsen

Learn how to safely observe the sun and contribute scientifically useful data to the AAVSO solar database.

— Intermediate Talks —

Spectroscopy, the Next Frontier

Fri 1:00 pm - 2:00 pmFlanders PavilionPresented by Dr. Brian Kloppenborg

Stellar spectroscopy is a cornerstone of modern astrophysics, offering critical insights into the physical properties, chemical composition, and dynamics of stars. This talk will provide an overview of fundamental spectroscopic principles, including the electromagnetic spectrum, blackbody radiation, and the formation of absorption and emission lines. We will discuss how spectra are used to classify stars, determine their motion through Doppler shifts, and analyze their atmospheric conditions. The presentation will also cover practical aspects of spectroscopic observations, including instrumentation, data collection, calibration, and reduction techniques. Finally, we will explore key scientific applications, such as studying binary systems, variable stars, and stellar activity, while highlighting opportunities for amateur astronomers to contribute valuable data to professional research.

Get published: Using Your Telescope for Science

Fri 2:00 pm - 3:00 pmFlanders PavilionPresented by Roxanne Kamin – IOTA

You can observe objects. You can image objects. How about using your telescope to prove that something exists by not observing the object itself, but rather by capturing an image of its shadow? Join us as we talk about how you can use your own telescope to contribute images, and light curve data to researchers around the world.

— Workshops & Seminars —

Hartness House Workshop

Thu 8:00 am - 5:00 pmHartness HouseHosted by Dan Lorraine & Tom SpirockWorkshop (Separate Registration)
Thu 6:00 pm - 9:00 pmHartness HouseHosted by Dan Lorraine & Tom SpirockDinner (Separate Registration)

Workshop and Dinner information is here. Separate registration and fees apply.

— Youth Events —

Rocket Science Basics

Fri 9:00 am - 10:30 amMcGregor Observatory LibraryBen Roberts & John HolloranAges 12-18
Sat 9:00 am - 10:30 amMcGregor Observatory LibraryBen Roberts & John HolloranAges 12-18

Have you ever wanted to fly your own rocket? Come join us and learn how we get to, and stay in, space using the most incredible machines humanity has ever created! No experience required. Pre-registration is recommended.
Contact orbitalmech@stellafane.org to pre-register or for more information.

Astronomy Activities for Children

Sat 11:00 am - 12:00 pmMcGregor ObservatorySpace RocksAges 5-12; Limited to first 20
Sat 2:00 pm - 3:00 pmMcGregor ObservatorySpace Make & TakeAges 5-12; Limited to first 20

There will be two 1-hour astronomy workshops for children; each session has a different activity. These astronomy workshops have been held at the Stellafane Convention since 1995. Led by Dr. Kristine Larsen, Professor of Astronomy at Central Connecticut State University and a member of the Springfield Telescope Makers, each of the 1-hour workshops includes several activities geared for children ages 5 - 12. Younger children are welcome but will need help from a parent.

Due to space limitations, each workshop is limited to 20 children on a first-come basis. Late-comers may be turned away.

Saturday 11 AM: Space Rocks Have you ever held a piece of outer space? Many of them fall to earth as meteorites. Learn about meteorites and 'meteor-wrongs' and see many different meteorites up close and personal. You might even win one to bring home!

Saturday 2 PM: Space Make and Take Stop by the McGregor Library and make your own Saturn model, star finder, UV detector, sun clock and more to take home!

Stellafane Family Lunar Rover Mission

Fri 1:00 pm - 4:00 pmBunkhousePresented by Johny Colt & Dominic Fucile

Stellafane’s space-tech program activity has been updated to encourage family participation though it is also open to Conventioneers of all ages. Attendees this year will be introduced to the mission and technology behind NASA’s CADRE (Cooperative Autonomous Distributed Robotic Exploration) spacecraft. Scheduled to launch in 2026, a trio of CADRE rovers will demonstrate how smarter autonomous and networked systems on the moon can operate. Course material includes a discussion on CADRE’s sensor systems, in particular how they relate to lunar deployed spacecraft.

This will be a hands-on and team oriented class that includes constructing CADRE inspired spacecraft to explore the Convention’s ‘lunar terrain’. Attendance will be first-come first-served. If interested, please email us directly at robots@stellafane.org. No technical experience is required however there will be a lot of specialized instruction. Please be on time! We will be working with hand tools, so please no open toed shoes (sandals or flip-flops).

— More to Explore —

Mount Ephraim Hike

Fri 9:00 am - 12:00 pmMeet North Side of Food TentLed by Katie Shusdock

Walk in Russell Porter's footsteps and start your Stellafane Convention with a little Stellafane lore and an easy hike to the summit of nearby Mount Ephraim. Stellafane members have been enjoying this hike for over one hundred years. A beautiful long-distance view of the McGregor Observatory and the Stellafane Convention, and a photo op at the summit next to the cairn monument are highlights of the trip. The round-trip distance is 4.3 miles, with an elevation gain of 671 feet. Dress for trail hiking with proper footwear and take precautions for ticks. If you need water and snacks for the hike they can be purchased from our food vendor. You can ask for the special Stellafane Hike Snack Bag. Meet your hike leader, Katie, at the Food Tent prior to 9:00am so the hike can start on time.

Astronomy Trivia Game for Teens-ish, Ages 10 to 20

Fri 11:30 am - 12:15 pmTent by Stellafane ClubhousePresented by Eli Goldfine

Test your knowledge of Astronomy and Stellafane in a trivia game designed exclusively for the Stellafane Convention. Prizes will be awarded!

Stellafane Geology Hike

Fri 1:00 pm - 2:30 pmMeet at North Side of Food TentLed by George Springston

Are you interested in what's below your feet as well as what's up in the sky? If so, the geology hike is for you. We'll head out on a hike on the wooded roads of Stellafane East and examine rock outcrops and glacial features that highlight parts of Vermont's long geologic history. The total length of the hike will probably only be about one mile, but the route is steep in places, and it will be over some rough, rocky ground. Hiking boots are recommended and be prepared for mosquitoes and ticks. If you need water and snacks for the hike they can be purchased from our food vendor. You can ask for the special Stellafane Hike Snack Bag. Meet your hike leader, George, at the Food Tent prior to 1:00pm so the hike can start on time.

Meet & Greet Social Hour for Youthful Adults, Ages 20 to 35ish

Fri 4:30 pm - 5:30 pmTent by the Stellafane ClubhouseHosted by Meghan Morse

Youthful adults, under 35-ish, should make their way up to the Stellafane Clubhouse to enjoy light refreshments and the company of other Stellafane fans and STEAM geeks. Share your story about what brought you to Stellafane and your interest in astronomy. Are you new to astronomy? Telescopes will be set up just outside the tent and Springfield Telescope Maker club members will be there for hands-on demonstrations of how to use a telescope for observing the night sky.

Pop-up Museum Exhibits

Fri 9:00 am - 5:00 pmOutside the Flanders Pavillion
Sat 9:00 am - 5:00 pmOutside the Flanders Pavillion

These Exhibits Will Pop-up at Different Times

  • American Precision Museum, Windsor, VT
  • DarkSky Vermont, the local chapter of DarkSky International

— Observing —

Solar Observing Hour

Fri 2:00 pm - 3:00 pmObserving FieldsPlease set up your Solar Scope and Share
Sat 2:00 pm - 3:00 pmObserving FieldsPlease set up your Solar Scope and Share

All attendees with solar filters or projection set-ups are encouraged to share the Sun with other attendees. The Simoni and Porter Turret observatories will be set up for solar observing as well.

Observing Olympics

Thu 8:30 pm - 12:00 amObserving FieldsCoordinated by Eileen MyersTelescopes & Binoculars
Fri 8:30 pm - 12:00 amObserving FieldsCoordinated by Eileen MyersTelescopes & Binoculars
Sat 8:30 pm - 12:00 amObserving FieldsCoordinated by Eileen MyersTelescopes & Binoculars
Sun 10:30 am - 11:30 amHillside below McGregorCoordinated by Eileen MyersAward Pins Only

Observing Olympics: Dusk to Midnight or later depending on observing conditions.
See the Observing Olympics Page for details and observing lists.

Cook Spectrohelioscope

Fri 9:00 am - 4:00 pmSimoni ObservatorySolar ObservingWeather Permitting
Sat 8:00 am - 5:00 pmSimoni ObservatorySolar observingWeather Permitting

The circa 1930 Cook Spectrohelioscope will be observing solar prominences and sunspots in hydrogen-alpha light. The Simoni Observatory is northwest of the Stellafane Clubhouse on Breezy Hill.

Porter Turret Telescope

Thu 9:00 pm - 12:00 amObservingWeather Permitting
Fri 9:00 am - 6:00 pmOpen, Solar ObservingWeather Permitting
Fri 8:00 pm - 12:00 amObservingWeather Permitting
Sat 8:00 am - 6:00 pmOpen, Solar ObservingWeather Permitting
Sat 9:00 pm - 12:00 amObservingWeather Permitting

The 1930 Porter Turret Telescope is located just north of the clubhouse on Breezy Hill.

McGregor Observatory

Thu 9:00 pm - 12:00 amObservingWeather Permitting
Fri 10:00 am - 6:00 pmOpen, Solar ObservingWeather Permitting
Fri 8:00 pm - 12:00 amObservingWeather Permitting
Sat 8:00 am - 6:00 pmOpen, Solar ObservingWeather Permitting
Sat 9:00 pm - 12:00 amObservingWeather Permitting

The McGregor Observatory, home of the 13-inch Schupmann Refractor, is located on a hilltop in the northwest corner of Stellafane East.

Breuning Observatory (Domed Observatory)

Thu 9:30 pm - 12:00 amObservingWeather Permitting
Fri 2:00 pm - 5:00 pmOpen
Fri 9:00 pm - 12:00 amObservingWeather Permitting
Sat 2:00 pm - 5:00 pmOpen
Sat 9:00 pm - 12:00 amObservingWeather Permitting

The domed Breuning Observatory is located just south of and downhill from the McGregor Observatory.

— Museum Open —

Hartness-Porter ATM Museum Open

Fri 4:15 pm - 6:00 pmHartness HouseHosted by Matt Considine, Curator
Sun 9:00 am - 12:00 pmHartness HouseHosted by Matt Considine, Curator

The Hartness-Porter Museum of Amateur Telescope Making is located in the underground rooms at the Hartness House Inn. Admission is free. GPS address 109 Front Street, Springfield, Vermont. Many of the items on display are by or about Russell W. Porter, including the Springfield and Garden telescopes. His artwork traces his arctic exploration years to his work on the 200" Palomar telescope, culminating in his famous cutaway drawings. Other items of interest include early telescopes and mirror making parts.

— Operating Hours —

Large RV Permit Holders must arrive

Thu 12:00 pm - 4:00 pmEntry GatePlease don't arrive before Noon!

Large RVs have to be pre-registered, and must arrive between Noon and 4PM on Thursday. Do not arrive early. We have large trucks making food deliveries and installing sanitation facilities before then.

Early Entry Permit Holders can arrive

Thu 3:00 pm - 10:00 pmEntry GatePlease don't arrive before 3:00!

Please do not arrive before 3:00 PM and do not park on Jordan Road. The large RV's come in before you, starting at noon. You will not be admitted before 3:00 PM, and our gate staff is busy getting the RV's safely in place.

Registration Gate

Fri 8:00 am - Entry GateGate Opens
Fri 10:00 pm - Entry GateGate Closes
Sat 7:00 am - Entry GateGate Opens

The hours of operation of the Registration Gate.

Shuttle Bus Operates

Fri 10:00 am - 6:00 pmBus StopsBus Stops: Pine Island, Food Tent, Pink Clubhouse
Sat 9:00 am - 5:00 pmBus StopsBus Stops: Pine Island, Food Tent, Pink Clubhouse

The Shuttle Bus makes two stops in Stellafane East, one by the Food Tent and one by the main Camping Area (See Stellafane East Site Map (pdf)). It makes one stop on Breezy Hill near the Clubhouse.

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