The Martz-Kohl Observatory welcomes the public throughout the year, free of charge. Whether you’re coming for a weekly open night, a guest lecture, or a special event, there’s always something to see and someone happy to show you the sky. Here’s everything you need to plan your visit.
🌟 New here? Open Observatory Night is every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. — always free, donations appreciated, and no reservation needed. Just come on out. 🌟
🔭 Open Observatory Nights
Every Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m., our volunteers open the domes to the public. Look through our large-aperture telescopes, ask questions, and learn the night sky from people who love sharing it. There’s no admission fee and no reservation required — newcomers and families are always welcome. If skies are cloudy, we’ll still be here with indoor presentations, tours, and plenty of astronomy to talk about. Admission is always free; donations are gratefully appreciated and go directly toward keeping the telescopes running and the lectures coming.
🎙️ Monthly Lecture Series
On the third Wednesday of most months, our lecture series brings scientists and researchers from NASA, universities, and observatories across the country to Martz-Kohl. These talks are always free and open to all, offered both in person and online, and they’re geared toward a general audience.
📅 Upcoming Events
- July 15 · 7:30 PM — Lecture: Dr. Alexandra Yep · How to Study the Stars
- August 19 · 7:30 PM — Lecture: Ja:no’s Bowen · Native American Astronomy & Constellations
- September 19 · 7:30 PM — Special Event · International Observe the Moon Night
- October 21 · 7:30 PM — Lecture: Steve Conard – LORRI: The Camera That Showed Us Pluto
- Every Wednesday · 7:30 PM — Open Observatory
📍 Getting Here
The observatory is located at 176 Robbin Hill Rd, Frewsburg, NY 14738. When you arrive on a public night, come to the door beside the dome and we’ll welcome you in. A few tips: the telescope domes are not climate-controlled, so dress for the weather, and a red flashlight (or a phone in night mode) helps your eyes adjust to the dark.
🚐 Plan a Group or Family Visit
Bringing a scout troop, school class, civic group, or your own family for a dedicated visit? We’re glad to arrange private group sessions and individual reservations outside of our regular public nights. Use the forms below to request a date.
Schedule a group or organization visit →
Reserve an individual or family visit →
Contact us →