***UPDATE February 2025: Due to ongoing work, the April 2025 Public Night has been canceled. At this time, we do not know when work will be completed. If a future public night will be held, it will be announced here and on our social media.***

Fan Mountain Observatory is open to the public twice a year, once in April and once in October. The Fan Mountain Observing Station is located in Covesville, VA, 13 miles south of Charlottesville at the end of a 3-mile-long gravel road. Prior reservation is required, but all tickets are free. If you are a member of the Friends of McCormick Observatory, you do not need to reserve tickets. 

Please Note: Due to the demand for tickets, groups cannot be accommodated at Fan Mountain Public Nights. If you wish to bring your educational group to an observatory night, please visit the McCormick Observatory Group Visit page.