Welcome to the Custer Institute & Observatory
Long Island's oldest public observatory (est. 1927)
All observing is done out in the open air, under the stars. Dress appropriately.
For the Curious
The Custer Institute and Observatory is Long Island's oldest public observatory (est.1927). Open to the public every Saturday evening from dusk until midnight, our staff of volunteers will give you a tour of the facilities and the night sky through our powerful telescopes. Custer has a library, exhibit room, and gift shop. Frequent lectures, classes,concerts, art exhibits and other special events.




- Ridgewood Savings Bank
- The New York Community Trust
- The Joe & Hellen Darion Foundation
- The Harold Family Foundation

- Visit & Contact
- Membership Information
- Member Nights
- Our Equipment
- Custer History
- Radio Astronomy
- Music Project
- Eclipses and Transits
- Meteor Showers
- Custer Maker Space
- News & Resources


Updated: 02/04/22
Saturday Night Observing: Open 7pm-Midnight

Weather permitting, Saturday Night Observing is from 7pm to midnight where volunteer Staff provide guided tours of the sky.
FRIDAY, Feb 10 7-9 pm |
STARGAZING AND HOT CHOCOLATE AT DOWNS FARM PRESERVE.![]() Join Group for the East End and Custer Institute for stargazing and hot chocolate at Downs Farm Preserve in Cutchogue. Downs Farm Preserve is a National Historic Landmark and the site of Fort Corchaug, a Native American settlement established in the mid-17th century. Its 51 acres of scenic woodlands and tidal wetlands along the shores of Downs Creek allow visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the North Fork, including the North Fork's dark skies.
$10 Adult, Children 12 and Under FREE. Attendance is limited so reserve your spot soon! All proceeds benefit Custer Institute and Group for the East End.
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Saturday, Feb 11 4:30 pm |
Custer Board Meeting.Members welcome. |
SATURDAY, Feb 18 Noon - 4pm |
![]() Southold Town's second annual Winterfest is right around the corner! From 12:00pm - 4:00pm join Custer Observatory staff for solar observing (weather permitting) at our booth in Silversmith's Corner (across from IGA), and later that evening, Custer Observatory's facility will be open to the public for stargazing beginning at 5pm until midnight. Staff will provide guided tours of the night sky through the powerful telescopes (weather permitting). Additionally, tours of the facility and exhibits will be offered periodically throughout the night (regardless of weather). Suggested Donation for observatory tours/stargazing: $5 Adults, $3 Children under 12. Registration not required. |
Saturday, May 13 4:30 pm |
Custer Board Meeting.Members welcome. |
Saturday, June 24 4:30 pm |
Custer Board Meeting.Members welcome. |
Saturday, July 8 4:30 pm |
Custer Board Meeting.Members welcome. |
This Week @NASA
February 2023 Skywatching Tips from NASA
NASA TV airs a variety of regularly scheduled, pre-recorded educational and public relations programming 24 hours a day on its various channels. The network also provides an array of live programming, such as 24-hour coverage of International Space Station events (spacewalks, media interviews, educational broadcasts), and rocket launches.