Join us in 29 Palms this March 31 – April 7 for International Dark Sky Week – a worldwide event hosted by the International Dark-Sky Association that celebrates the wonder of our night sky! Founded in 1988, the International Dark-Sky Association works “to preserve and protect the nighttime environment and our heritage of dark skies through environmentally responsible outdoor lighting,” and has hosted the International Dark Sky Week event since 2003.
The theme of the 2019 International Dark Sky Week is “open a window to the night” and we’ve highlighted some special opportunities to do just that this week in and around 29 Palms:
Star Party: Mars and a Bright Open Cluster
Sky’s The Limit Observatory and Nature Center, 29 Palms, CA
Saturday, April 6, 2019
8:00pm – 10:00pm
The constellation Leo is near zenith (directly overhead) with bright star Regulus. To the east is M66, a bright galaxy that is 21 million light years away. Look further east and find Bootes and the brilliant globular cluster M3. It is 32,000 light years distant. To the left of the Star Regulus, look to the west for the dim constellation Cancer. You will find a great open star cluster M44, commonly called the Beehive – one of the brightest as it is only 538 light years distant. Sunset will be at 7:08pm. Prominent constellations: Leo (The Lion), Virgo (The Virgin), Bootes (The Herdsman), Hydra (The Water Snake), Cancer (The Crab). This is a free event, no registration required.
Learn more about events at Sky’s The Limit Observatory and Nature Center
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Dark Sky Astronomy Program
Mojave National Preserve
Saturday, April 6, 2019
8:00pm – 9:00pm
Join the Dark Sky Ranger to view the magnificent night sky and learn about the importance of the dark sky at the Mojave National Preserve. Meet at 8:00pm at Site #1 at Hole in the Wall Campground, and be sure to bring some warm layers, a flashlight, and a camp chair. This event is free and does not require registration.
Learn more about astronomy programs at the Mojave National Preserve
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Starry Starry Night Evening Program
Joshua Tree National Park
Thursday, April 4, 2019
8:00pm – 8:45pm
Celebrate International Dark Sky Week in an International Dark Sky Park! Join a Park Ranger for a tour of the universe as seen from Joshua Tree National Park. Meet at the Indian Cove Amphitheater, near Site #40 at the end of Indian Cove Road. Bring warm layers, water and snacks, and consider carpooling as parking is limited.
If you have explored Joshua Tree National Park at night you have surely marveled at all those stars, but did you know it’s an official International Dark Sky Park?
Designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association on August 12, 2017, Joshua Tree National Park boasts some of the darkest night skies in southern California! Defined by the IDA as “a land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment,” Joshua Tree National Park joins 19 other national parks with Dark Sky Park status, and offers visitors an unforgettable experience under the stars.
Learn more about stargazing in Joshua Tree National Park
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Save the Date – the 5th annual Night Sky Festival is taking place in 29 Palms on Saturday, September 21, 2019!
Join us in 29 Palms this fall as we celebrate of our stunning night skies! From astronomy lectures and solar telescope viewing, to guided walks with docents and astronomy themed crafts and activities for youth, to the evening star party with astronomers and 20+ telescopes, this festival offers fun for the whole family! Located just outside the north entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, Sky’s The Limit Observatory and Nature Center hosts the majority of the Night Sky Festival events, and will open ticket sales in the summer. Learn more about the Night Sky Festival, and book your stay in 29 Palms today.
