The current gate closure time is 7 p.m. After that time, a code is needed for park entry (& access to the astronomy field).



“Experience the Universe at Charlie Elliott”

Directions to Charlie Elliott


Charlie Elliott Astronomy Observing Night! (No Meeting)

April 6, 2024


Details

With the next scheduled meeting date for the Charlie Elliott Astronomy Club being Saturday, April 6, but the widely publicized total solar eclipse only two days later AND with many of our members planning to head out of town to the eclipse path, we invite all who choose to remain in town to a night of observing on the Jon Wood Astronomy Field — weather permitting. In other words, NO formal meeting at the usual location on Murder Creek Church Rd.

This could be a perfect chance for anyone planning to purchase a telescope to view through others already on the field to help with the decision-making. (Always make sure to obtain permission from the owner of the scope you wish to look at or through in case the equipment is already configured for imaging.)

With New Moon just two days away, the skies will be dark all night! It’s galaxy season and there will be a lot of nice deep sky objects to seek out. Bright Jupiter will be visible in the west, setting a little after 10 p.m.

Sunset that evening will occur at 8:00 p.m. but the main gate on Elliott Trail (off Marben Farm Rd) closes to new entry by vehicle an hour earlier (at 7 p.m.); that gate will, however, automatically open for exiting traffic at all times. If you are not a member and plan to arrive after 7 p.m., please make arrangements with a club member for access.

Directions to the Jon Wood Astronomy Field

  1. (From Atlanta) Head east on I-20 to exit 98,
  2. Turn right at the top of the ramp to head south on Hwy 11,
  3. Continue south through Mansfield on Hwy 11,
  4. Turn left off Hwy 11 onto Marben Farm Road (entrance road to the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center),
  5. Turn right onto Elliott Trail,
  6. Proceed a short distance to the dirt driveway for the astronomy field on your right; parking is on the field but all are urged to orient their vehicles to face the field exit gate so as not to cause problems with headlights when leaving.

Observing on Jon Wood Astronomy Field

A few items to note:
  • Plan to treat this outing like you would a camping trip and be prepared. Dress appropriately for the weather and the environment, bring snacks and drinks if needed, and plan to take your trash with you.
  • There is a regularly serviced Porta Potty on the field.
  • As stated above, the main gate on Elliott Trail closes to new entry by vehicle at 7 p.m., but will automatically open for exiting traffic at all times. If you are not a member and plan to arrive after 7 p.m., please make arrangements with a club member for access.
  • No white lights allowed on the field. Red flashlights are cheap and easy to find at your favorite store. They’re even cheaper to make with a spare flashlight and red nail-polish on the lens.
  • For more information about Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center, please visit the Charlie Elliott website.

Downloads from the Last Meeting

Skymap

Our Monthly Meetings and Public Observing Nights

Our monthly meetings and public observing nights are free and open to the public. Our meeting, observing, and outreach schedule is updated as-needed and can be reached by clicking on the “Our Calendar” tab at the top of this page. Start times vary throughout the year so please check back frequently for details.

View our Full Calendar of all meetings & outreach events


It’s Easy to Join the Charlie Elliott Astronomy Club!

Charlie Elliott Astronomy Membership Form Pay dues with PayPal

All Charlie Elliott Astronomy events are free and open to the public and you don’t have to be a member to attend our meetings or join us on Jon Wood Astronomy Field. However, we would encourage you to consider a yearly paid membership for less than the cost of a couple of pizzas. Your membership dues allow us to continue our science outreach programs in area schools and youth organizations, merit badge programs with area Scout Troops, and allow us to maintain the facilities on Jon Wood Astronomy Field. To become a member, you can fill out our Membership Form or contact an officer. March is membership renewal month. If you are renewing your membership, no form is necessary.


The Charlie Elliott Chapter is a member of the Night Sky Network Click on the banner below to request an outreach event. nightskybannertag.gif

Want to help with our Outreach?

Register here to become a Charlie Elliott Astronomy outreach member


Want to know a little more about us?

Meet the Charlie Elliott Chapter Officers


Charlie Elliott Astronomy, serving the Atlanta area and East Middle Georgia, is a chapter of the Atlanta Astronomy Club, a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to promoting the public knowledge of and interest in astronomy. Donations support our outreach programs, equipment expense, and educational materials.

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