Since opening in October of 2006, over 10,000 visitors have gazed through the 16” telescope installed in the observatory dome. In addition to our regular schedule of viewing on Friday and Saturday evenings (weather permitting), additional telescopes are available for free public viewing on the second Friday of each month from sunset till about 9:30pm. If you are interested in purchasing a telescope, this is a great way to view a variety of telescopes and learn from the experience of volunteers from the East Valley Astronomy Club. There is also an astronomy related talk the second Friday of each month which takes place at 8:00pm in the adjoining public library. These Sky Watch programs are a joint presentation of the Gilbert Riparian Institute and the East Valley Astronomy Club. The lectures are free for members of the Riparian Institute, and for the general public a donation of $5 is requested (but not required).