Established in 1993 by the Riverside Telescope Makers Conference (RTMC), Nightfall is sponsored by the Riverside Astronomical Society, Inc. (RAS). This autumn star party is unique because it takes place at a desert resort that creates a dark, red-light only environment throughout its hotel property and RV park for three nights.

This is a great opportunity to bring family and friends to a star party with amenities such as pools, high-speed Internet access, and air conditioned rooms, as well as dark, steady skies. In the daytime, there are nearby hiking and off-roading adventures in the expansive Anza Borrego State Park.

In addition to observing and imaging at Nightfall, the RAS hosts daytime workshops on Friday and Saturday, a Friday afternoon reception, Saturday’s potluck dinner and that evening's outdoor skytour.

In 2010, Nightfall officially starts on Thursday, the 4th, and wraps-up Sunday morning, the 7th. However, the Palm Canyon Resort will be offering special rates to those who wish to arrive a night early, or stay through until Monday. More information will be available in "The Resort" portion of this site.