5K Road Race
September 12, 2026
Kopernik’s Race to the Stars 5K road race is an annual fundraiser that started in 2018. Join us for this special 5K road race through the hills surrounding the Observatory. We invite all to participate by sponsoring, donating, running, and cheering your friends and family on!
When
September 12, 2026
5:30 PM – Walk-in Registrations Open
6:30 PM – Race Starts
7:30 PM – Award Ceremony & After Party
Where
Kopernik Observatory & Science Center
698 Underwood Rd.
Vestal, NY 13850
Course
Start and finish at Kopernik Observatory & Science Center. You will turn left on Underwood from Kopernik’s parking lot, travel along Underwood Road, turn right on Ridge Road for a brief distance and return to Kopernik. The race will be a USATF-certified 5K race. The course is relatively flat, with a 150-foot elevation change.
Course Map
Cost
Standard – Includes T-Shirt and Goodie Bag
Adult (18+): $30
Youth (17 and Under): $20
No Merch, No T-Shirt
Adult – No Merch: $15
Youth – No Merch: $10
Registration Closes on August 20
This is a fundraising event; member discounts don’t apply.
What to Expect
The Kopernik Science Park will be open! Please be advised that children must be supervised at all times.
Parking is limited, a person at the gate may direct you to park on Underwood Road on the Observatory side of the road toward Route 26. Handicap-accessible parking will be available at the Observatory parking lot.
The Observatory will be open for telescope viewing during the after-party.
Questions: racetothestars@kopernik.org
Interested in Sponsoring for Race to the Stars 2026?
Please email the Race to the Stars coordinator with your inquiry
Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors!
