Entry No. 22 — the Washington, D.C. file — filed under: observatory

George Mason University Observatory

Above a university research building sits a 32-inch Ritchey-Chretien reflector — one of the largest campus telescopes on the East Coast open to the public — alongside a 152mm hydrogen-alpha solar scope, a 16-inch Dobsonian, and a CCD camera rig, all free to walk up and use, no ticket or reservation required, on public nights (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays) through the academic year, weather permitting.

The move: Show up on a clear Wednesday night during the academic year (it's closed for summer), take turns at the eyepiece of the 32-inch reflector on the rooftop dome, then grab a late dinner nearby before driving home.

• 📍 Fairfax, VA
• 💸 $
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: Research Hall, 10401 York River Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030

Hours: Added 2026-07-19 — confirm current hours before you go.

⚠ Seasonal or scheduled — always check before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: science.gmu.edu · Wikipedia · wtop.com

last checked: 2026-07-19