The Robert Ferguson Observatory, by Stephanie Derammelaere, Executive Director
Our speaker for October 13, 2022, was Stephanie Derammelaere, the Executive Director of Robert Ferguson Observatory (“RFO”), the observatory at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park in Glen Ellen, CA. Stephanie She holds a degree in business economics, an MBA, and prior experience in marketing, public relations, and journalism, among other skills and accomplishments. At RFO she is responsible for strategic leadership, fund development, daily operations, and partnerships, among other activities.
The Valley of the Moon Observatory Association (“VMOA”) is an association of amateur and professional astronomers responsible for the construction, maintenance, and utilization of RFO and is a nonprofit under the auspices of the State Parks System. The purpose of the observatory is to give the public a place to foster interest in astronomy and space and to inspire young people to pursue education and careers in astronomy or related STEM fields. RFO was founded 37 years ago when Robert Ferguson started the Striking Sparks program and made telescopes by hand as awards to students. Phase I of the observatory project began in 1995. Phase II, the construction of classrooms, restrooms, the library, and East Wing, was completed in 1999. A dome room was constructed in 2002. RFO is now the largest public observatory in Northern California. RFO houses a 40” telescope in the West Wing, an 8” refractor in the South Wing, and a 20” astrophotography scope in the East Wing. 3 solar scopes allow for the safe viewing of sunspots, solar flares, and solar prominences.
RFO offers a variety of programs, including Public Star Parties, Seasonal Night Sky Class Series, Bring your own telescope night, private star parties, daytime programs/guided planet walk tours, solar observing and a speaker series. Off-site programs include school visits, private star parties (for an “out of this world” experience), museum visits, outreach programs, and “Young Astronomers.” A list of public events is available on RFO’s website. RFO also offers a variety of ways to get involved, including attending or hosting an event, signing up for the mailing list, becoming a member or volunteer, or donating. (Visit RFO.org for details. Tickets are available at rfo.simpletix.com.
Thank you, Stephanie, for the informative and enjoyable presentation. And many thanks for your active involvement in helping develop key community and educational goals!
