PLANETARIUM

• PURPOSE - Recent space exploration and advances in technology have generated wide spread interest in astronomy among all ages. To serve the needs of schools and other interested visitors to N o r t h e r n California, the Taylor Planetarium and Observatory was constructed by the Lake County Office of Education.

• LOCATION - Just hours north of San Francisco's bright city lights, beyond Napa Valley's rolling vineyards lies the peaceful beauty of Lake County. It is here, where dazzling stars pierce black skies, some of the finest astronomical viewing on our continent is available. The Taylor Planetarium and Observatory is situated in Kelseyville, just minutes east of Highway 29, between Lakeport and Lower Lake. Visitors are welcome to gaze upon the heavens and marvel at the wonders of the universe.

• RESERVATIONS - Interested groups of up to 35 people are kindly requested to call 279-8372 to make reservations for visiting our facility. Occasionally, on a date usually near the first quarter moon, public viewing evenings are conducted with no reservations required. Please call for details.

• COST - There is a $2.00 charge for adults and $1.00 for children (prices are subject to change). There is no charge for school classes.

• GROUPS - Groups of all types are welcome, including, but not limited to, school classes (grades 1-12), college and family groups, clubs and teachers. Due to restricted accessibility of the telescope eyepieces, most programs are unsuitable for children under six years of age.

• VIEWING - Specific viewing hours vary according to time of year and length of day. Programs may be scheduled during the day or in the evenings. Although successful observatory viewing is enhanced by clear weather, the planetarium programs are not limited by inclement weather.

• DRESS - While the planetarium and classroom are climate controlled, the telescope dome is not. Therefore, appropriate outdoor evening wear (coats, sweaters or jackets) is recommended year round.

• PARKING - Ample parking space is available for cars and buses in the observatory parking lot. Secure lighting is provided for the lot itself as well as the walkway to the reception room.

• EXPLORE - Explore the galaxies! The Taylor Planetarium and Observatory is the perfect place for exploration, discovery and fun. A typical evening's program begins with a live audio/visual presentation which includes slides and/or laser disks. Following a brief discussion on the use, construction and care of telescopes, visitors may enjoy considerable observation time, weather permitting.

• OBSERVE - See various planets in orbit. Learn to recognize star clusters, millions of miles from earth. Marvel at the misty beauty of striking nebulae, galaxies away. Search for your birth sign among the stars!

• STUDY - By request, special programs and independent study plans can be prepared. In-service workshops for teachers and other groups may also be arranged. For those interested in research, a variety of materials are available including moon atlas, charts, books, journals and NASA Select Programs.

EQUIPMENT
Our facility features the following equipment:

• Spitz Planetarium
• #373 Spitz Projector
• 121/2" Reflector Telescope
• 8" Cassegrainian Solar Telescope
• 52" Color Television
• VCR and Laser Disc
• Portable Telescopes
• Astro-Photography Capability

Taylor Planetarium and Observatory
Kelseyville, California
(707) 279-8372