The Martz-Kohl Observatory is powered entirely by volunteers and members who love sharing the night sky. Becoming a member connects you with a welcoming community of amateur astronomers, gives you hands-on access to the observatory and its telescopes, and directly supports the free public programs we offer all year. You can also support our mission by shopping our store or making a donation.
🌟 Memberships start at just $15 a year for students — and every membership helps keep the domes open and the telescopes running. 🌟
🤝 Why Become a Member
Membership is the best way to turn a passing curiosity about the sky into a lifelong hobby, alongside people happy to learn and observe right beside you. Members enjoy:
- Hands-on access to the observatory’s facilities and telescopes
- The collective knowledge and comradery of fellow members — a great way to grow your skills
- Free member lectures and presentations on astronomy
- A bi-monthly newsletter keeping you up to date on activities
- Public viewing nights and stargazing parties
- Opportunities to take part in educational outreach, if you’re interested
- Reduced subscription rates to Astronomy and Sky & Telescope magazines
🎫 Membership Levels
- Student — $15/year. For K-12 or full/part-time students at an accredited institution. Full privileges except voting and holding office.
- Individual — $35/year. Full privileges, including one vote and the ability to hold office.
- Family — $50/year. Full privileges for all family members, up to two votes, and the ability to hold office.
- Supporting (Individual or Family) — $100/year. Full privileges, plus a portion of your dues is a tax-deductible donation supporting our educational mission.
The membership year runs October 1 through September 30. Joining is quick — fill out the online form, pay securely online or by mail, and you’re in.
🛍️ Observatory Store
Show your support and wear it well. The Martz-Kohl Observatory has partnered with Falconer Printing to offer apparel and merchandise featuring our logo — shirts, hats, magnets, and more. Items can be shipped or picked up locally, and a portion of every purchase is donated to the observatory.
💙 Other Ways to Give
Not ready to become a member? You can still help keep the observatory free and open to the public. As a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) non-profit, we rely on the generosity of supporters like you — every gift goes directly toward maintaining our telescopes, hosting lectures, and bringing astronomy to the community.
🔒 Members Area
Already a member? Sign in to the members-only area for newsletters, resources, and member information.