The Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory (GRCO) is located in the Gilbert Riparian Preserve. This project was designated the Gilbert Rotary Club's centennial project to mark the 100-year anniversary of its inception in 1905. The Observatory is owned by the Town of Gilbert and managed by the the East Valley Astronomy Club. East Valley Astronomy Club members staff operations and programming for the Observatory. 

The observatory houses a 16-inch diameter Meade, modified Richey-Cretien scope, guided by a Paramount ME computer controlled German equatorial mount slaved to The Sky professional computer program. SRP contributed all funding for this state-of-the-art scope.

Observatory Ongoing Public Viewing Hours: 

• Friday and Saturday evenings from sunset to 9:30 PM (weather permitting)

Follow the links to learn more and add these events to your calendar. 

Private viewing is currently available Sunday through Thursday evening for small groups (maximum of six) by appointment. Reservations can be made with the East Valley Astronomy Club by visiting the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory website and selecting the Private Viewing button.

This amenity is a Certified Autism Center. Download the sensory guide for the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory and learn more about this program.