IMPORTANT NOTICE, the 2026 Messier Marathon and Spring Star Party is postponed! Due to the extreme heat conditions expected this week and weekend. SAC has decided that for the safety of attendees this years event will be rescheduled for April 17 – 19th. With temperatures expected in excess of 105 degrees with no acclimation period, SAC feels that missing out on 8 objects for those doing the marathon by moving to April is better than risking health and safety of participants. With any luck temperatures will return to more normal levels by then.
When: April 17-19
Download the PDF Flyer with all the information on the marathon here (PDF)
Location: Approximately 90 miles west of Phoenix. Take the I-10 towards Los Angeles and take the Hovatter Rd. exit. Go right north) from there and follow the signs for approximately 3.5 miles. Porta-potties will be provided. (Google Maps)
Messier Marathon Resources
Provided below is a list of downloadable resources I put together you might find helpful for the marathon.
- Saguaro Astronomy Club (SAC) Star Party Webpage
- Messier Marathon List in various formats
- PDF Form (PDF)
- Excel Spreadsheet (.xlsx)
- Sky Safari Pro Download (.skylist)– Instructions on loading the list can be located here.
- Astro Planner (.apd)
- The Ultimate Messier Object Log (PDF) by David Green – 91 pages with images
- The Observing Guide to the Messier Marathon by Don Machholz – Purchase the PDF book here