Entry No. 22 — the Monterey file — filed under: observatory

Richard W. Hamming Astronomy Center / Weaver Student Observatory

On the old Fort Ord army base, MIRA's Richard W. Hamming Astronomy Center houses the Bette M. and William R. Weaver Student Observatory, adjacent to CSU Monterey Bay — MIRA's real research telescope is a 36-inch reflector at the Oliver Observing Station atop 5,000-foot Chews Ridge in the Santa Lucia range. Free quarterly public lectures by local astronomers sometimes end with observing, and MIRA has hosted CSUMB students for lunar-eclipse watch parties.

The move: Show up to a free evening lecture (no registration needed) at 200 Eighth Street, stay after for the roof to open, and let the astronomy club swing the 14-inch scope onto the night's best target — check the calendar first, since these are scheduled just a few times a year.

• 📍 Marina (former Fort Ord)
• 💸 $
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: 200 Eighth St, Marina, CA 93933

Hours: Added 2026-07-20 — confirm current hours before you go.

⚠ Seasonal or scheduled — always check before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: mira.org · thelutrinae.com

last checked: 2026-07-20