With millions of acres of wilderness and limited light pollution, Yellowstone is an excellent place to view the stars, moon, and yes, even the sun! We’re lucky enough to have NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Lynn Powers hold a number of “Star Parties” this summer where attendees will not only learn about the night sky but have the chance to take a look through Lynn’s powerful telescope. During the two Solar/Earth Connection events, attendees will get a rare opportunity to view the sun through a solar telescope with specialized filters.

Lynn hopes attendees will come away with an even greater appreciation of the vastness of the universe and how precious the night sky is. As Lynn and other astronomy enthusiasts have said, “half the park is after dark.” And as she’ll attest, there is nothing like watching the amazement on people’s faces when they peer through one of these telescopes for the first time. What better place to view and learn about the wonders of the night sky in this land of natural wonders?

LOCATION: All events will take place at Yellowstone Forever’s Gardiner, MT headquarters just across from the Roosevelt Arch.

 

Star Party: Dark Skies, Deep Space Observations, & Preserving the Night Sky
Tuesday, June 24, 9pm to 11pm

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Yellowstone’s dark skies while learning about the importance of preserving them. This program includes deep space observations through powerful telescopes, offering views of distant galaxies and nebulae. Participants will also learn about the impact of light pollution and ways to protect our night sky for future generations.

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The Sun/Earth Connection
Monday, July 28, 1pm to 3pm

Discover the fascinating world of daytime astronomy with Solar Observations. This program focuses on safely observing the Sun using specialized equipment like solar telescopes and filters. Participants will learn about sunspots, solar flares, and other dynamic solar phenomena. The program also covers the importance of solar observation in understanding our star’s behavior and its impact on Earth.

 

Star Party: Craters, the Moon, & Nebulas
Monday, July 28, 9pm to 11pm

Join park rangers and astronomers for an evening of stargazing focused on the Moon’s craters and the mesmerizing nebulas. Using high-powered telescopes, you’ll explore the rugged lunar surface and the colorful clouds of gas and dust in space. This program is perfect for those fascinated by the intricate details of our celestial neighbors.

 

The Sun/Earth Connection
Tuesday, August 12, 1pm to 3pm

Discover the fascinating world of daytime astronomy with Solar Observations. This program focuses on safely observing the Sun using specialized equipment like solar telescopes and filters. Participants will learn about sunspots, solar flares, and other dynamic solar phenomena. The program also covers the importance of solar observation in understanding our star’s behavior and its impact on Earth.

 

Star Party: Perseids Meteor Shower, Shooting Stars, & Comets
Tuesday, August 12, 8:30pm to 10:30pm

Witness the spectacular Perseids Meteor Shower, known for its bright and frequent shooting stars. This event includes guided observations and explanations about the origins of meteors and comets. It’s a magical night under the stars, ideal for both seasoned stargazers and newcomers.

 

Star Party: Craters, the Moon, Nebulas, & Galaxies
Friday, August 29, 8pm to 10pm

Explore the wonders of the night sky, from the Moon’s craters to distant galaxies. This program offers a comprehensive stargazing experience, highlighting the Moon’s surface, colorful nebulas, and far-off galaxies. With expert guidance, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the universe’s vastness and beauty.

 

Lynn Powers, MSSE is a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador and President of the Southwest Montana Astronomical Society. Ms. Powers has spent over 20 years in education and public outreach with a focus on astronomy and enjoys sharing her love of the night sky with the public.