A night in the national parks is an opportunity to sleep under the stars and see the sky in a whole new light.
EMPIRE -- UpNorthLive's Facebook fans voted to hear more about enjoying the views of an area park in the dark.
You are invited to enjoy Sleeping Bear Dunes after dark when the Grand Traverse Astronomical Society (GTAS) takes part in a series of monthly astronomy events.
The first event will take place Friday in celebration of National Park Week. Each special event will take place at a different location throughout the National Lakeshore. The strategic viewing opportunities will give you a whole new look at the lakeshore scenery.
A night in the national parks is an opportunity to sleep under the stars and see the sky in a whole new light.
Astronomy in the parks doesn't end when the sun comes up. The national parks are also a window to other worlds in our solar system. A hike through the active dunes is to experience the sands of Mars and the Lake Michigan ice volcanoes in the middle of winter are like a hike on a moon of Saturn.
The GTAS will provide volunteers who share their telescopes and vast knowledge. They will be your guide through the night sky journey.
The schedule of events:
April 27 - Picture Yourself Under the Stars
Friday 8:30-11pm
Celebrate National Park Week with an evening under the stars. Watch the sunset at 8:44pm over Lake Michigan and view the night sky through telescopes. Meet at Platte Point Beach at the end of Lake Michigan Road in Benzie County.
May 20 - Partial Solar Eclipse
Sunday 8-10pm
See the eclipse from 8:21pm until sunset at 9:04pm. Then view Venus, Mars and Saturn after the eclipse. Solar shades will be provided at the event. Meet at Lake Michigan Overlook #9, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
June 2 - Almost Full Moon Party
Saturday 9-11pm
Observe the nearly full moon as well as Venus, Mars and Saturn from the Dune Overlook #3, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Please park at Picnic Mountain, the next right after the #2 stop.
July 21 - Star Party
Saturday 9-11pm
Enjoy seeing the crescent moon, Mars, Saturn and the southern Milky Way from Platte Point Beach at the end of Lake Michigan Road in Benzie County.
August 11 - Port Oneida Fair Star Party
Saturday 8-10:30pm
Learn about the history of astronomy and view Mars, Saturn and the southern Milky Way from Thoreson Farm in Port Oneida Rural Historic District. Also, see the peak of the Perseid meteor shower.
September 8 - See the Stars from the Sand
The Dune Climb isn't just for running. Observe Mars, Saturn and the southern Milky Way. Meet at the Dune Climb parking lot.
October 21 - 42nd Anniversary Party
Sunday 8-10pm
Watch the first quarter moon, Mars and Saturn. Meet at the Dune Overlook #3, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Please park at Picnic Mountain, the next right after the #2 stop.
For all astronomy events please bring a flashlight for the walk back to your car and bug spray if needed. Park Rangers and GTAS staff wear red glow bracelets for the events.
The monthly Star Parties will be cancelled during bad weather. The decision is usually made three hours in advance. Please call Park Rangers at 231-326-5134 ext. 331.
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