About Us
Welcome to the New Jersey Astronomical Association
For more than fifty years, the New Jersey Astronomical Association (NJAA) has been inspiring curiosity about the universe through education, exploration, and public outreach.
Nestled atop one of the highest ridges in New Jersey, our observatory is a place where visitors of all ages can experience the wonders of the night sky. Whether you're looking through a telescope for the very first time, attending one of our educational programs, or joining fellow astronomy enthusiasts under a sky full of stars, you'll discover a welcoming community passionate about sharing the science of astronomy.
The Buzz Aldrin Astronomical Center
The Buzz Aldrin Astronomical Center serves as the heart of our organization.
Named in honor of Buzz Aldrin, the second person to walk on the Moon and a proud New Jersey native from Montclair, the Center hosts our monthly meetings, astronomy lectures, educational programs, youth activities, and special events throughout the year. It is where members, students, families, and visitors gather to learn, explore, and share their passion for astronomy.
The Paul Robinson Observatory
At the center of our observatory complex stands the Paul Robinson Observatory, home to our impressive 26-inch reflecting telescope.
The telescope's primary mirror measures 26 inches in diameter and was originally built as a Newtonian reflector with an f/4 focal ratio. It has since been converted to a Cassegrain configuration, allowing comfortable viewing from a standing position or with only a small step when needed.
Supporting this remarkable instrument is a modified German Equatorial mount originally acquired from Indiana University, where it was used in astronomical research. The mount itself is a massive iron casting nearly seven feet tall, anchored by a foundation extending twenty feet into the mountain's bedrock for exceptional stability.
The entire telescope and mount weigh more than four tons and stand nearly fifteen feet above the observatory floor, making it one of the most impressive public telescopes in the region.
Our Observatories
In addition to our flagship telescope, the NJAA operates several specialized observatories designed for astrophotography, research, and visual observing.
Luna 1
Dedicated primarily to deep-sky astrophotography, Luna 1 features a 5-inch, 1100 mm f/7 refractor equipped with a CCD imaging system and astronomical filters mounted on a precision German Equatorial Mount.
Luna 2
Designed for both visual observing and advanced astronomical imaging, Luna 2 houses a 14-inch Celestron EdgeHD Aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with a 3910 mm focal length (f/11), mounted on a German Equatorial Mount for precise tracking.
Luna 3
Luna 3 supports planetary imaging and astronomical research. It combines an 8-inch Celestron EdgeHD telescope for high-resolution planetary video imaging with a Tele Vue 101 refractor dedicated to spectroscopy and scientific investigations.
More Ways to Explore the Sky
Beyond our permanent observatories, NJAA maintains a collection of portable telescopes used during public observing programs, educational events, and outreach activities.
Visitors can also experience the Sun safely through our specialized hydrogen-alpha solar telescopes during our popular Sunday afternoon solar observing sessions, revealing dramatic solar prominences, filaments, and sunspots invisible through ordinary telescopes.
Member Benefit — Loaner Telescopes
Not everyone owns a telescope — and that's perfectly okay.
NJAA maintains a collection of loaner telescopes available for members who are just beginning their astronomy journey or who would simply like to try different equipment. Members may borrow these telescopes for observing sessions on the observatory grounds, making it easy to gain hands-on experience before investing in equipment of their own.
Our Home in New Jersey
The New Jersey Astronomical Association operates within one of New Jersey's beautiful state forests under a long-standing lease agreement administered by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Parks and Forestry.
This unique partnership allows us to preserve a remarkable location for astronomical education while providing thousands of visitors each year with opportunities to discover the beauty and science of the universe.