Borrow a Telescope

Places where you can borrow or rent a telescope in the Bay Area. Borrowing is a great, no-risk way to discover if astronomy is the hobby for you.

San Francisco Amateur Astronomers
The San Francisco Amateur Astronomers (SFAA) have a loaner program for members. They have a range of different-sized telescopes for rent.
San Jose Astronomical Association
The San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA) runs an extensive loaner program for members. They have a wide array of telescopes, large to small, for beginners and experts.
Scopes 4 Rent
Scopes 4 Rent is a commercial outfit that offers a good selection of quality scopes for rent, on both short-term and long-term arrangements. You can also book sky tours for corporate events and private parties. The owner is an experienced amateur astronomer.