SerpApi.Org
If you’ve ever been curious about the night sky but weren’t sure how to get started, this is your chance. From July through September, two Oregon state parks will host a series of free stargazing events for visitors of all ages.
L.L. Stub Stewart and Rooster Rock state parks are partnering with the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and Rose City Astronomers for the programs, which will include presentations at dusk followed by stargazing from 9 to 11 p.m. Volunteers will provide telescopes, though visitors are welcome to bring their own. Weather permitting, participants can look for stars, the moon and planets.
The summer schedule includes three events. L.L. Stub Stewart State Park will host a Summer Night Sky event on Saturday, July 18. Both parks will hold a Perseid Meteor Shower Watch on Wednesday, Aug. 12. L.L. Stub Stewart will close out the season with an Equinox Celebration on Saturday, Sept. 12.
“We love helping people experience the park in a different way. After dark, everything feels calmer, quieter, and a little more magical,” Jeremy Williams, park ranger at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, said in a news release
While the events are free, parking in day-use areas requires a $10 permit per vehicle. Visitors with annual parking passes may use those instead.
Organizers recommend visitors bring chairs, blankets, warm clothing, snacks, water and bug repellent. To preserve dark sky viewing conditions, participants should use red flashlights or cover regular flashlights and smartphones with red electrical tape. Star maps will be available, along with recommendations for astronomy apps.
Park Ranger Elika Paki at Rooster Rock said the meteor shower offers an opportunity to experience the Columbia River Gorge differently.
“Whether you come to Rooster Rock to count Perseids or simply to spend a peaceful evening under the stars, the meteor shower is a wonderful excuse to slow down, look up, and experience the Gorge in a whole new light,” Paki said in a news release. “And if you lose track of how many shooting stars you’ve seen, don’t worry, that just means you’re doing it right.”
Visitors should arrive early to find parking in designated spaces. The parks will close at 11:45 p.m. Overnight camping is not permitted in day-use areas, though campground reservations are available at L.L. Stub Stewart via stateparks.oregon.gov.
On event days, visitors should check the OMSI website for weather-related cancellations. Additional information can be found at omsi.edu/events/omsi-star-party.
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