Vernonia Peak Observatory
Satellite imagery: Esri, Maxar, Earthstar Geographics
Vernonia Peak Observatory, also known as VPO, is a private research facility near Vernonia, Oregon, between Portland and Astoria.
About Vernonia Peak Observatory
The observatory is owned and operated by the Northwest Astronomy Group, serving the region's amateur astronomy community. As a private facility, it operates outside the more heavily documented networks of major public observatories, but it maintains an active role for local stargazers.
Location & getting there
Vernonia sits in the forested hills of northwest Oregon, between the larger cities of Portland and Astoria, offering a rural setting away from significant urban light pollution.
Visiting Vernonia Peak Observatory
As a private facility run by the Northwest Astronomy Group, access is likely tied to group membership or scheduled events rather than open public hours. Check the Northwest Astronomy Group's website for current information before planning a visit.
See your named star from here
A private observatory run by dedicated amateur astronomers is exactly the kind of place where a named star's coordinates can be looked up and pointed to for a personal viewing. Name a star or browse the catalogue to find yours.
Opening hours and public-visit programs vary by season. Check Google Maps for current times before you travel.
