Western Nevada College News
Star Parties Set for Jan. 10 and 17; Daytime Galaxy Talk on Jan. 31
Jan 9, 2026

The opposition of Jupiter is the focus of the Saturday, Jan. 10, Star Party at Jack C. Davis Observatory.
Discover the science behind the star that powers our planet!
Carson City Parks, Recreation & Open Space and Carson City Park Ranger are teaming up with Jack C. Davis Observatory (JCDO) to present a Daytime Galaxy Talk at Silver Saddle Ranch on Jan. 31.
From 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Dr. Thomas Herring and observatory volunteers will guide guests through an engaging discussion about the Sun, with telescopes available for safe solar viewing in the Red House area.
This free, all-ages event offers a unique opportunity to experience astronomy in broad daylight!
As a reminder, astronomy lovers and those with an interest in learning more about the universe shouldn’t hesitate to attend an upcoming Star Party at JCDO. Parties are scheduled for Saturday nights on Jan. 10 and 17 and led by Dr. Herring. The Jan. 10 party will emphasize Jupiter’s opposition, which is when the Earth passes directly between the planet and the Sun. At opposition, Jupiter, known for its colorful cloud bands and countless moons, will appear brightest and closest in our sky throughout the night.
The free parties run from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. at the observatory, which is located at 2269 Vanpatten Ave., on the northern end of the WNC’s Carson City campus.