Little Thompson Observatory Policies

Facility use policy
For our Visitors
About making an appointment
1. An appointment for facility use is required. Groups or individuals may make an appointment. An appointment should be made at least one-week in advance of the visit, two-weeks advance notice for appointment before 4:30 pm.
2. Please check the calendar on the www.starkids.org website for available days and times.
3. Appointments may be made either by completing the appointment form on the website or, by calling the Little Thompson Observatory information line (message only) at (970) 613-7793.
4. There is no charge for use of the facility, but we always welcome donations to keep this facility operating.
5. The Little Thompson Science Foundation maintains the right to refuse observatory access to anyone.
6. The Facility Scheduler may from time to time book multiple appointments during the same time slot, but will so indicate on the calendar.
7. Appointments for remote access between midnight (local time) and first light are made through Telescopes In Education (TIE) at www.mtwilson.edu. For teachers trained in the local school district making appointments before midnight, please make appointments like usual.

Do's and Don'ts
1. Please listen to the presentations, ask a lot of questions and enjoy yourself - it is your evening at the observatory. Our volunteers will do whatever is possible to make it an unforgettable experience for you.
2. Bring a small flashlight, as the path to and from the observatory is not always lighted.
3. Dress according to the prevailing outside temperatures, since the telescope is maintained at outside temperatures for technical reasons.
4. You may bring visitor instrumentation (including eyepieces) for use on the large telescope, but please obtain prior approval from the LTO staff. Due to heavy usage, no visitor instrumentation will be allowed on Public Star Nights.
1. Don't bring food or drinks (unless specifically approved in advance by the board). Bottled water is available in the observatory for a small donation ($0.50).
2. Don't bring animals or pets (except service dogs).
3. Don't bring alcohol, tobacco products or drugs of any type, since the observatory is on school grounds and as such is within a "Drug Free Zone".
4. Don't bring bicycles, skateboards or in-lines skates into the observatory. Please leave them outside.
5. Don't touch the constellation wall. We like to keep our stars in their constellations.

Please remember that the Little Thompson Observatory is operated by volunteers and supported by donations from the local community. Your co-operation in keeping the facility clean and orderly is most appreciated.