The Friends of Galileo is a friendly, family-oriented club of astronomy enthusiasts in Longview, WA. We are dedicated to advancing the understanding & enjoyment of astronomy through educational programs, practical experiences and social events.

You don't need your own telescope to join!

We have star parties, sidewalk astronomy and guest speakers (local and internationally-known experts). Members share responsibility for operating the club, participate in social events, and can even borrow various club telescopes. Membership dues (payable in early May) are modest and cover your immediate family.

We love to share our wonder and knowledge of the sky!

Members include all ages, from beginners to experienced viewers. Some are telescope makers and astrophotographers. We have teachers, millworkers, homemakers, doctors, students and retirees. You'll fit right in!

Oh, and check our Galileo page for a short bio of the first astronomer to use a telescope.

We've met monthly since 1995. Join us!

Visitors are always welcome to take part! Check our Calendar page for dates and times. Contact us for your first visit, in case of last minute changes.

Our meetings generally include sky reports (what we can see this month), club business, guest speakers, and light refreshments. It's a great way to meet fellow sky enthusiasts.

Just getting started in astronomy? You'll find friendly club members to provide tips and advice.

We meet in Room 130 at RA Long High School (note the change, we don't meet at Mark Morris any more).

  • September through May: meetings start at 7:00 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month.
  • November: meeting date may change due to Thanksgiving
  • December: we hold our meeting / Christmas party at another location (to be announced)
  • June through August meetings: schedule and location to be announced

Sidewalk astronomy

From time to time, members will bring their telescopes to the sidewalk outside Starbucks on Ocean Beach (just west of Harbor Freight).

Come by, say hello, and have a look at the sky!

Check our Events page for the next date.

Solar System Walk

Did you know we gave the City of Longview a scale model Solar System Walk, along the west side of Lake Sacajawea?

That was in 2001. In 2018, our very first Solstice Lantern Walk through the Solar System was a spectacular success.

Help us light up the longest night of the year!

Human Sun Dial

Stand in the right spot, and your shadow will tell you the time!

This is another club gift to Longview. It is outside the Science Building at Lower Columbia College.

Stephen Powell describes the creation of the sundial.

Friends of Friends of Galileo

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Rose City Astronomers (Portland) - one of our Star Party partners
Mount St. Helens Institute - one of our Star Party partners

Oregon Star Party - next one July 30 - August 4, 2019

Other astronomy resources

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Astronomical League - viewing guides (beginner to advanced, naked eye to binocular to telescope)

What's the weather forecast for Longview? Check accuweather.com or weather.com.
Will we have a clear, dark sky at Willow Grove Park?
What can I see in the night sky this month?
Where is the International Space Station right now?
When will the International Space Station be visible from my house?

How to choose your first telescope (YouTube video)
How to get started with star gazing
Print a free calendar of sunrise and sunset (and moon phases and more)

Astronomy magazine
Sky and Telescope magazine

APOD - Astronomy Photo of the Day