Star Party Events

Star Parties at the ranch are by invitation only or accompanied by a HIDAS member in good standing

Star Party-July 26th 2025 at the Ranch (HIDAS)

What a great event this was. We did have some clouds but they cleared and gave us a great view of the Milky way.

Thanks to everyone who made it great!

Star Party-Aug 22-23rd 2025 at the Ranch (HIDAS)

Private event invitation required

We are making this event available Friday and Saturday at the moment. Please be aware things can change. The last event had better weather on the Friday than the Saturday and some people would have liked to do Friday vs Saturday. Some people did both and camped the weekend. Some people left around Midnight on Friday and came back Saturday. Please note it can be very hot in the daytime in Aug.

If you would like an invitation and are not associated with HIDAS please email and we can attempt to find you a sponsor.

jvdarkskyranch@gmail.com

Star Party-NOV 21-22, 2025 at the Ranch (HIDAS)

Private event invitation required (HIDAS)

Star Party-NOV 4-5, 2025 at the Ranch (HIDAS)

Private event invitation required (HIDAS)

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Check out our friends at

Eastern Sierra Observatory

for a truly unique and exciting observing experience! Almost everything you need already set up. Plus a Hot Tub!

You didn’t come this far to stop

Round up your group or party of two for a unique stargazing experience featuring a huge telescope operated for you by our host… a hot tub… SHIFTPOD accommodations with padded cots, power stations, and galaxy lamps… huge grill and flat top griddle for your cooking needs… SOUNDBOKS for your music-playing needs… 24 foot redwood bar… pool table… giant chess set… stunning views of the Eastern Sierra… and more!

black blue and yellow textile

A favorite place of ours

The Alien Mailbox

Home of

This is one of our favorite places

Some would say it is MAKKAH for astronomers

100 inch

The first time I saw this beast I couldn't stop staring at it. This is where the universe became endless. Hubble discovering the variable star and soon the universe was no longer just our galaxy.

60 inch

We have been there several times and absolutely love spending time looking through this telescope. You can find an original lockers downstairs with Hubble's name as well as several other important astronomers. The history is as amazing as the telescope.