Star Field Complex
March 18, 2024 Update
Our preliminary County meeting to discuss the required short plat application in order to subdivide the property resulted in a few insurmountable issues that would result in it being rejected. With the help of the Seattle Astronomical Society (SAS) we are continuing to work together to find a suitable location to purchase.
Goldendale, Washington
Two hours from OMSI, Bortle 2 skies!
In late 2023, the Board of Directors were approached with an opportunity for the RCA to purchase 5 acres of Bortle 2 land located outside of Goldendale, Washington (near Goldendale Sky Village) at just over 2,400 feet of elevation.
Initial property purchase costs are expected to be about $35,000, however there will be additional site development costs to make the property accessible and available for members to utilize it. The Board has designated a committee to research and put forth a plan.
An adjoining 5 acre parcel is to be purchased by the Seattle Astronomical Society (SAS) and in cooperation will work to initially build a shared telescope field for both groups and provide portable toilets.
How to Help
Make a tax deductible donation to the Star Field Complex project by clicking here!
Phase I - Goal: $35,000 - Raised: $35,000 (100%)
Purchase 5 acre property; Title, Survey, Escrow, Fees, etc. totaling no more than $35,000. The board is allocating from existing observing site funds and the rest was raised with donations.
Phase II - Goal: $30,000 - Now fundraising!
Have a road built into the sites, clear the telescope field and install an access gate. RCA’s expected cost to be $30,000. Rent portable toilets ($70/month in the summer). Should be able to start using the site sometime in early June depending on spring weather for construction.
Phase III - Goal TBD - Future Potential Items
Concrete pads for telescopes.
Storage container with solar power for charging batteries and maybe internet access.
Member equipment storage container.
Vault toilet (like what is at GSV and various state parks).
Golf cart or other vehicles for maintenance tasks.
Tent shelter to get away from the summer sun and a nice gathering spot.
Star Field Complex Frequently Asked (or Answered) Questions
Updated: 01/15/2024
Is RCA purchasing the property or leasing it?
RCA will be purchasing five acres of a 20 acre property. The other fifteen acres are being purchased by three other entities, the Seattle Astronomical Society, and two private observers.
Where is the site?
The site is Northeast of Goldendale near Skyview Acres and Goldendale Sky Village.
How far away is it?
The site is approximately 2 hours from Portland.
How dark is it?
The site is Bortle 2.
How many people can it hold?
The two fields together can handle lots of vehicles once improved. There should be no issues with capacity far into the future.
Can I go only during star parties?
The intent will be to allow access outside of star parties for any RCA member. We are still working on details of how this might work.
What is the cost for the site?
The base cost of the property is around $35,000 for the RCA and the same amount for each other 5-acre parcel. There are other costs that we will incur during purchase. After purchase there will be annual recurring costs, as well as costs for improvements such as road improvements and constructing small structures.
What are future plans?
Phase I would just be purchasing the site.
Phase II would include building a road into the site, cutting down some trees, moving large rocks away from the observing field, and possibly installing a gate at the entrance.
Subsequent phases could include a vault toilet, internet access, a storage container, shaded rest area for daytime recreation, and a roll off observatory.
How will it work with the Seattle club?
The Seattle club and the RCA will develop a common observing field spanning both properties. We will share costs for development equally. On the common observing field there will be no distinction between RCA and SAS property; members of both clubs will observe side by side which will help foster social engagement between members and unity between the clubs.
Is there water? Internet? Cell reception? Electricity?
There are no utilities or other improvements on the site. Cell phone access exists.
Are there any rules I need to be aware of?
The SAS and RCA are jointly coming up with a code of conduct to ensure peaceful coexistence and enjoyment of the site. These will be published, and anyone who wants to visit will need to agree to abide by these rules.
How can I donate to help with purchase and improvements?
