I am co-coordinator for RPI's Public Observing Program , founded in the summer of 1998 by myself and fellow graduate student Nicolle Zellner . In addition we have volunteers on the roof with smaller telescopes looking at double stars, star clusters, and other objects of interest as well as pointing out constellations. Our knowledgable volunteers are more than happy to show someone how to use their new telescope or answer questions about the night sky, our universe, and other mysteries.
Children are more than welcome.
The 2001 observing season begins April 25. We will be open every clear Wednesday night through the end of August when observing will move to Fridays until the end of October. Observing will begin when the sky is dark and continues for 3 hours, weather permitting. It's full of great activities for the classroom.