Fremont Peak Observatory

Fremont Peak Observatory is an astronomical observatory owned and operated by Fremont Peak Observatory Association. Built in 1986, it is located in Fremont Peak State Park, near San Juan Bautista, California. Fremont Peak Observatory houses the Challenger telescope.

Fremont Peak Observatory has been under threat of closure due to the California budget crisis. In a statement on the FPOA website, FPOA President Doug Brown references a request by the California Department of Parks and Recreation to FPOA to donate $100,000 to the State of California or face the closure of the park. Budget considerations have resulted in a curtailing of park hours. The astronomical program dates continue to operate April through October on non-full Moon Saturday nights.

Fremont Peak Observatory operates strictly by trained volunteers. An intern program has been underway for several years, utilizing science students from nearby Hartnell Community College.