Desert Astronomy Field Experience for Beginners

This nighttime astronomy experience introduces participants to the wonders of the desert night sky in an accessible and engaging way. Using telescopes and binoculars, guests observe stars, planets, and seasonal constellations while learning the stories and science behind what they see. Astronomer John Watkins, Ph.D., will guide participants through navigating the night sky while also sharing insights into how desert conditions create some of the clearest stargazing opportunities in the world. The experience is paced to allow time for viewing, reflection, and discussion, making it approachable for beginners and families alike. Participants are encouraged to experience the quiet of the desert night while developing a deeper appreciation for the cosmos above.

• This class takes place in Joshua Tree National Park.

• Anyone may attend! No expertise or experience is required. Youth under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

• Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is not included in the cost of enrollment. Please purchase your park pass ahead of time by visiting the NPS website.

• No meals or equipment are provided.

• Participants are responsible for their own transportation; carpooling with other participants is encouraged. 

This family-friendly class is leisurely. It requires less than 2 miles of walking with shade, seating, consistent terrain, and little to no elevation gain. 

Required Items:

• Water (1 - 2 liters per person)

• Appropriate attire: Layers are recommended for low nighttime temperatures

• Food and snacks

• Closed-toe athletic shoes

• Headlamp or flashlight (red light preferred)

• Binoculars or telescope (optional)

• Blanket, mat, and/or folding chair for sitting (recommended)

Discount Policy: Only one discount may be applied per registration. Discounts cannot be combined. Eligible discounts include Friends & Family, Teacher, Veteran, Active Duty Military (and spouses), Park Lover Member, and Student discounts. The highest applicable single discount will be applied at checkout. 

Meet Your Instructor: John Watkins holds a Ph.D. in Physics and began his career at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, contributing to the historic Voyager 1 and 2 missions. This launched a 30+ year career in aerospace, during which he worked on groundbreaking projects including the NASA Zero-Gravity aircraft, the National Ignition Facility (NIF) — the world’s largest fusion research laser — and experiments involving materials cooled to near absolute zero. Now a proud resident of Joshua Tree, John teaches physics and astronomy at Copper Mountain College. He continues to explore the cosmos from his own backyard, where he enjoys stargazing under some of the clearest night skies in the country.

Photo Credit: NPS/Kelsey Graczyk