THIS IS STAR GAZING WEEK AT ONE OF THE KERR LAKE STATE PARKS IN VIRGINIA
Staunton River Star Party offers free public viewing night October 17
SCOTTSBURG – The Staunton River Star Party will return to Staunton River State Park Oct. 12 – 18 for registered participants. A free public viewing night will be offered on Saturday, October 17 from 8 to 11 p.m. Join members of the Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observational Society (CHAOS) for their fall star party. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the night sky, and view various celestial objects.
Astronomers from across the country converge here in Halifax County each spring and fall to take advantage of the area’s exceptionally dark night skies. The star party also features guest speakers and a variety of vendors geared to astronomy enthusiasts.
Star party goers this year will also be celebrating the designation of Staunton River State Park as an “International Dark Sky Park,” the 25th park in the world to attain that status.
Guests at the Saturday evening event will have a chance to mingle with amateur astronomers who will share their telescopes and their knowledge.
Stargazers should dress for the weather and bring a flashlight, preferably one with a red lens to preserve the dark night views. (Red cellophane will be provided for those who don’t have a red lens.) Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the beach concession area.
Staunton River State Park is located in Halifax County at 1170 Staunton Trail, Scottsburg, VA. For specific information about the park you may call 434-572-4623, or email stauntonriver@dcr.virginia.gov.
For general information or to make overnight reservations at Staunton River or any of Virginia’s 36 award-winning state parks go to www.virginiastateparks.gov or call toll-free 800-933-7275.