Nature center and observatory in Sunriver
The Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory is a local nonprofit. ProPublica's Nonprofit Explorer lists it as a 501(c)(3) organization, and its own About page gives its tax ID, 93-0817907.
In its own words
The About page states its mission as "to foster curiosity and create educational experiences that inspire a deeper connection to space and the natural world." The home page says that by day visitors can see the nature center, which it describes as home to birds of prey, bees and other native wildlife, along with a botanic garden, nature trails and educational programs for all ages. By night, it says, visitors can look at the stars in what it calls the nation's largest publicly accessible observatory. That is the center's own description, and we have not checked it against any other source.
The site says the center cares for about 8 acres of natural habitat around Lake Aspen. It also says generations of students and families have made memories there over more than 50 years, thanks to volunteers and donors. Volunteers work in animal care, education, grounds, visitor services, the Second Tern thrift store and administration. Members get unlimited daytime admission and discounts on some programs.
Visiting
The center is at 57245 River Road in Sunriver. Its hours page lists separate hours for the nature center, daytime solar viewing and the nighttime observatory. It says the nighttime observatory hours vary, that reservations are required, and that the program calendar has specifics. Admission is charged for daytime visits, with reduced or free admission for some guests, including veterans, active military and members. Hours change by season, so check the hours page and calendar before you go.