The Westport Astronomical Society has high hopes for Fairfield Giving Day.

The observatory, which opened in 1975, needs a new home after it was given a load of new equipment from the estate of Ted Shementi.

Shannon Calvert, of the Westport Astronomical Society, says the observatory is already a great place for children.

"When a little kid looks through the telescope and says, 'oh wow,’ at Saturn, Jupiter, or the moon, that is the inspiration that can set them on a path," Calvert said.

The telescopes and dome that were donated to the observatory require a new building, which will be paid for by funds raised online during Fairfield Giving Day.

The fundraiser started at midnight and goes on for 24 hours.