Astronomy Events

In many areas, it can be difficult to see the night sky in it’s fully glory due to extensive light pollution. Having an opportunity to explore the Universe through a large, high powered telescope, in the dark skies and, expansive fields here at the farm is very special.

We’re pleased to be able to offer this remarkable experience in several different ways this year – with the help of our friend, and space naturalist Rebecca Spitz!

Rebecca and In Focus Astronomy offer spectacular astronomy experiences throughout the great state of Maine. Using a large telescope she guides folks through a comprehensive observational tour of the sky. What sets In Focus Astronomy apart is Rebecca’s unique ability to make even the most complex astrophysics concepts understandable and attainable to individuals of all ages and learning styles.

Explore our great Universe with Rebecca here at Pumpkin Vine Family Farm in these four ways –

Solar Sundays – As part of our Sunday Farmers Market Rebecca will have her specialized solar telescope set up from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Drop in anytime to observe the Sun and ask your burning questions about Earth’s closest star!

For the 2023 season Solar Sundays will be held – May 21, June 4, July 2, July 30

Lunar Viewing Parties –Because the light from a bright Moon washes out the Milky Way and some of the fainter deep space objects, the Lunar Experience focuses on the amazing features on the surface of the Moon. We will show you craters in detail you never thought imaginable! 

Observation is from 9:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m., but we recommend arriving around 8:30 to set up your chairs or picnic blankets.

Please visit our Event Calendar, choose the date you’d like to join us, and register for that Lunar Viewing Party. Attendance is capped at 25. Suggested Donation: $15 for adults, $5 for kids.

For the 2023 season Lunar Viewing Parties will be held – June 2,  July 28

Deep Space Astronomy – Using her state-of-the-art massive 14” Newtonian Reflector ​observational telescope on a dark sky night, Rebecca will take you on a comprehensive tour of the night sky. You will leave the experience with a deeper understanding of how every object in the Universe is intimately connected… including yourself. 

Observation is from 9:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m., but we recommend arriving around 8:30 to set up your chairs or picnic blankets.

Please visit our Event Calendar, choose the date you’d like to join us, and register for that Deep Space Astronomy event. Attendance is capped at 25. Suggested Donation:$15 for adults, $5 for kids.

For the 2023 season Deep Space Astronomy will be held – June 16, August 11.

CANCELED – Music & The Spheres – On August 25th from 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm join us for an immersive experience of art and nature under the panoramic skies of Pumpkin Vine Family Farm. Be transported by the beauty and wonder of music and astronomy in an evening you’ll never forget. 

The evening starts at 6:30pm with live music performed by Katherine Liccardo on fiddle and Matt Consul on mandolin/fiddle. 

Deep Sky observations start at 9:30. Using a massive 14” Newtonian Reflector Telescope, Rebecca will take you on a comprehensive tour of the night sky. Registration is not required for this larger event.

Can’t wait to see you under the stars!