About
Astronomy Programs at Turner Farm Park Observatory offers scheduled astronomy programs and events such as Planet Adventure Night, Night Sky Tour at the Roll-Top Observatory, The Sun: Our Neighborhood Star, and Introduction to Astronomy. The program also offers a Night Viewing Permit that allows a person to remain in the parking lot after dark for stargazing and night photography, with proof of permit required at all times and visitors under 18 accompanied by a valid permit holder. All events are held outdoors, and participants are advised to dress for the weather.
• Schedule: The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, the observatory zone is open only during scheduled astronomy programs and events, and all events require advance registration.
• Price: All events require registration, and applicable fees are listed under each registration link.
The Observatory at Turner Farm Park is open for special events and programs only, and there are no walk-in hours, so all visitors must register for programs in advance. Programs and events take priority and may limit access, and the Night Viewing Permit does not include access to the observatory area. Night Viewing Permits are issued per person for ages 18 and older, are valid from the date of purchase through December 31, and visitors must follow all Park Authority rules and policies. Restrooms are available for registered participants when the observatory is open at night, and pets are not allowed inside the Roll-Top building but may be on park grounds in the observatory zone under Fairfax County leash laws. Park grounds, including equestrian fields and rings, are open dawn to dusk, while the playground, picnic area, and other areas outside the observatory zone are open daily from sunrise to sunset, and pavilion rentals are available for daytime use only. Participants are notified by email if an event is canceled due to weather. Community members, organizations, and businesses can help expand access to free astronomy programs at Turner Farm by sponsoring a viewing. Nicole Mitchell, MPA, serves as the Waterfront Sites and Nature Centers Branch Manager.
Last updated July 16, 2026.
• Schedule: The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, the observatory zone is open only during scheduled astronomy programs and events, and all events require advance registration.
• Price: All events require registration, and applicable fees are listed under each registration link.
The Observatory at Turner Farm Park is open for special events and programs only, and there are no walk-in hours, so all visitors must register for programs in advance. Programs and events take priority and may limit access, and the Night Viewing Permit does not include access to the observatory area. Night Viewing Permits are issued per person for ages 18 and older, are valid from the date of purchase through December 31, and visitors must follow all Park Authority rules and policies. Restrooms are available for registered participants when the observatory is open at night, and pets are not allowed inside the Roll-Top building but may be on park grounds in the observatory zone under Fairfax County leash laws. Park grounds, including equestrian fields and rings, are open dawn to dusk, while the playground, picnic area, and other areas outside the observatory zone are open daily from sunrise to sunset, and pavilion rentals are available for daytime use only. Participants are notified by email if an event is canceled due to weather. Community members, organizations, and businesses can help expand access to free astronomy programs at Turner Farm by sponsoring a viewing. Nicole Mitchell, MPA, serves as the Waterfront Sites and Nature Centers Branch Manager.
Last updated July 16, 2026.
Is this your business? There is no cost, but you will be asked to sign up or log in.