One of MWOA's main functions is to provide docents to Mt. Wilson Observatory. A docent is a volunteer who interacts with the public to lead
tours of the Observatory's facilities, to supervise the sustaining member nights on the 60-inch telescope, and to participate in the Observatory's public outreach and educational programs. The tours include both the regular 1:00 pm Saturday and Sunday walking tours (from April through November) and specially scheduled tours (all year) that may take visitors onto the observing floor of the 100-inch Hooker Telescope.
All docents must complete a training program, run by MWOA, to ensure that the information they convey is correct and that they know the proper safety procedures. This training is a combination of lectures, reading, and individual study about the history and current research at the Observatory, plus sessions on the mountain to review the facilities and grounds. Many MWOA members take advantage of this training as one of the best ways to learn about the Observatory, and they then share what they learn with visitors. Becoming a docent is also an excellent way to learn public speaking in a friendly and low-pressure environment.
Many visitors are enthusiastic about Mt. Wilson and greatly appreciate getting the personal attention that a live docent can give. Being a docent can be very rewarding, and a lot of fun.