Prepare for the world’s largest and most spectacular astronomy and space expo! The Northeast Astronomy Forum (NEAF) is back to mark its 35th anniversary in Suffern, New York, conveniently located 40 minutes from New York City. Hosted at Rockland Community College on April 11 and 12, this massive two-day event turns the campus into an astronomy wonderland, featuring a 90,000-square-foot showroom with more than 120 top vendors, expert lectures, and live solar viewing opportunities.
Vendors include Astronomy magazine, Celestron, Oberwerk, Sky-Watcher, ZWO, Lowell Observatory, and many other top manufacturers from around the world. The huge showroom offers the ultimate opportunity to test and purchase the latest products.
NEAF is also a great place to see talks by top industry experts. Peter King, a CBS News correspondent who has chronicled the space program for over three decades, leads the lineup. Joining him will be NASA Astronaut Don Pettit, renowned for his orbital photography, Astronomer Michelle Thaller, and NASA Astronaut Robert “Hoot” Gibson. Plus, WPKN will be broadcasting live with host Andy Poniros. Visit the NEAF website for the most up-to-date speaker list and schedules.
RELATED: The best new astronomy products we saw at NEAF 2025
NEAF also includes the Northeast Pro/Am Conference (NPAC), which features free walk-in classes where you can learn to conduct real science and collaborate with professional astronomers. This unique conference brings together amateurs and professionals seeking assistance in research projects.
Other opportunities for fun include shows in two planetarium domes for adults and kids alike, mirror making with the Springfield Telescope Makers, and safe solar viewing with the Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project. Beginners can attend Astronomy 101 workshops, including telescope classes daily at 10:30 a.m., while kids enjoy STEM activities.
Don’t miss the massive Sunday raffle (you do not need to be present to win) and hourly door prizes. When you need a break, visit the Astro Cafe or the Fieldhouse snack bar.
Ticket information
The event is open on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are available online. One-Day Passes are available for $41.00, and Two-Day General Admission is $75.00. A special Souvenir Package is also offered for $110.00, which includes a two-day ticket, T-shirt, 20-page show program, and coffee mug (a $120 value). Please note that ticket prices are higher at the door. Children 12 and under are admitted free with adult accompaniment.
