Gila Community College is preparing to celebrate an exciting new chapter at the Payson Campus with the First Light Ceremony & Star Party for the Richard F. Caris Observatory on Friday, April 9, 2027.
The event will mark the beginning of official observations and research at the new Richard F. Caris Observatory, a project made possible in part through funding from the Caris Foundation. The observatory will create new opportunities for education, scientific exploration, research, and community engagement at Gila Community College.
The celebration will begin with student presentations and guest speakers from 1:00–5:00 p.m., followed by the First Light Celebration from 5:00–6:00 p.m. The evening will conclude with a Star Party from 6:00–9:00 p.m., giving attendees an opportunity to explore the night sky with telescopes, experts, and members of the community.
Guests can look forward to:
- Ribbon Cutting — Celebrate the opening of this exciting new chapter at GCC.
- First Light — Witness the beginning of official observations and research at the Richard F. Caris Observatory.
- Star Party — Explore the night sky with telescopes, experts, and the community.
- Food & Music throughout the celebration.
The event will take place at the Gila Community College Payson Campus, 201 N. Mud Springs Road, Payson, Arizona 85541.
Save the date and join Gila Community College as a new era of discovery begins in Payson!
