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On Friday, February 20, lead Physical Scientist of the National Park Service Night Skies Program Dan Duriscoe will explore the contribution of pristine night skies to the qualities of wilderness character.These include untrammeled, natural, and undeveloped conditions, as well as the opportunity for solitude and spiritual reflection.He will read from the works of important authors who have commented on the night sky as it relates to these qualities and its effect on human civilization, and introduce the role of the National Park Service in protecting pristine night skies. Death Valley NP is the largest International Dark Sky Park in the world, designated by the International Dark Sky Association. Public Parking is available in the Golf Course parking area at the resort. Signs and red path lights from the Post Office area and the Golf Course parking lot will guide pedestrian traffic to the observing area. Visitors are asked to minimize the use of white flashlights - red cellophane will be provided to cover white lights in order to protect observers' night vision. Event Schedule: Friday, Feb. 20 Sunset (approximately 5:30pm) - Astronomy in the Park begins 7:00pm - 8:00pm - Presentation by Dark Sky Ranger Dan Duriscoe in the Furnace Creek Visitor Center Auditorium 7:00pm - 9:00pm –NPS staff present programs and assist visitors with telescopes 8:00pm - 8:30pm - Laser-guided tour of the night sky (Naked-eye visible objects) 11:00pm - Public portion of Astronomy in the Park concludes for the evening Saturday, Feb. 21 10:00am - 2:00pm - Solar Observing in front of the General Store 7:00pm - 9:00pm –NPS staff present programs and assist visitors 8:00pm - 8:30pm - Laser-guided tour of the night sky (Naked-eye visible objects) 11:00pm - Public portion of Astronomy in the Park concludes for the evening Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and bring whatever snacks and drinks they might needed during the evening. For more information see www.nps.gov/deva or http://www.furnacecreekresort.com/activities/stargazing+. -NPS- |
Last updated: March 10, 2015