JOIN OUR ORBIT
DONATE
Support our mission to inspire curiosity, expand knowledge, and share the universe's wonders with our community. Your generosity helps maintain our historic observatory, fund educational programs, and keep the stars within reach for everyone.
Every contribution—big or small—makes a cosmic difference! 🌟 Donate today.
MEMBERSHIP
Become a Member of the Custer Institute & Observatory
Becoming a member of the Custer Institute & Observatory offers a range of benefits designed to enrich your astronomical experience and connect you with a community of like-minded enthusiasts.
By joining, you become part of Long Island's oldest public observatory, contributing to our mission of inspiring and educating the public about the wonders of the universe.
Join online or download our membership form and mail it to
Custer Institute
Box 1204
Southold, New York 11971
Enhance your astronomical experience and connect with fellow enthusiasts. As a member of Long Island's oldest public observatory, you’ll support our mission to inspire and educate the public about the wonders of the universe.
Enhance your astronomical experience and connect with fellow enthusiasts. As a member of Long Island's oldest public observatory, you’ll support our mission to inspire and educate the public about the wonders of the universe.
Membership privileges include:
Unlimited Saturday Night Stargazing: Enjoy complimentary access to our weekly open house sessions, where you can explore the night sky through our powerful telescopes guided by knowledgeable volunteers.
Discounts on Special Events: Receive exclusive discounts on lectures, workshops, and special programs the Institute hosts throughout the year.
Subscription to "Reflector" Magazine: Stay informed with a quarterly subscription to the "Reflector" magazine, delivered directly to your home, featuring articles and updates on astronomical topics.
Invitations to Members-Only Events: Gain access to exclusive events and gatherings designed specifically for our members, fostering a deeper connection within our community.
Voting Rights: Participate in the governance of the Institute by exercising your voting rights on key organizational matters.
Family membership includes two adults and small children. Enhance your astronomical experience and connect with fellow enthusiasts. As a member of Long Island's oldest public observatory, you’ll support our mission to inspire and educate the public about the wonders of the universe.
Members 65 or older. Enhance your astronomical experience and connect with fellow enthusiasts. As a member of Long Island's oldest public observatory, you’ll support our mission to inspire and educate the public about the wonders of the universe.
Enhance your astronomical experience and connect with fellow enthusiasts. As a member of Long Island's oldest public observatory, you’ll support our mission to inspire and educate the public about the wonders of the universe.
SPONSORSHIP
A corporate sponsorship of $5,000 provides comprehensive support to the Custer Institute & Observatory, Long Island's oldest public observatory. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1927, the Institute relies on public contributions to sustain its operations, educational programs, and community events.
Your generous sponsorship would play a pivotal role in maintaining our facilities, including the observatory and its historic equipment, and in organizing lectures, seminars, and special events that foster public interest in astronomy and the sciences. Additionally, your support would aid in funding our scholarship program, which awards up to two scholarships annually to local high school seniors pursuing careers in science, technology, or engineering, with a preference for those focusing on astronomy and related fields.
By becoming a corporate sponsor, your organization will be recognized as a key partner in promoting scientific education and exploration within the community. We would be delighted to discuss how we can acknowledge your support and involve your company in our initiatives.
Our Corporate Sponsors help strengthen science education and community programming while aligning their brand with a respected institution. Corporate Sponsors receive recognition on our website and at select events, demonstrating their commitment to supporting STEM education and public outreach.
Patrons provide essential funding that allows us to enhance our community engagement, develop new educational initiatives, and support ongoing research efforts. Your contribution directly impacts our ability to inspire future generations of astronomers.
Benefactors contribute at a higher level, ensuring the continued growth of Custer Observatory. Your generosity aids in the upkeep of our telescopes, funding special events, and advancing scientific education for all ages.
As an Individual Sponsor, you demonstrate a deeper commitment to the Observatory’s mission while enjoying all standard membership benefits. Your support helps maintain our facilities, expand our programming, and keep our stargazing nights accessible to the public.
VOLUNTEER
JOIN US AS A VOLUNTEER!
Share your passion for astronomy, science, and community by becoming a volunteer at Custer Institute and Observatory! Whether you love stargazing, event planning, or helping behind the scenes, there’s a place for you. No experience is needed—just curiosity and a willingness to lend a hand.
Be part of something stellar! 🌟 Sign up today.