![]() Courtesy of Imma Barrera, Acadia Artist-in-Residence, 2021. Used with permission. Stargazing at AcadiaThe night sky is one aspect of our environment that everyone across the world can experience. It is a resource that humans throughout time have looked to as both a mode of navigation and a realm for the spiritual. Though the night sky at Acadia looks a little different than the night sky in the Southern Hemisphere, everyone has the access to gaze up into what lies beyond our planet. Stargazing is a great way to experience nature, explore science, and ponder history. Acadia Night Sky Week 2023The Acadia Night Sky Festival will not be held in 2023. The sponsors continue to consider options for conducting the festival in the future. We are very thankful for all of our followers, visitors, and collaborators. Alternatively, the National Park Service is offering a series of free public programs for Acadia Night Sky Week on Sept 10-16, 2023. Find program descriptions in the online calendar below. For more information, please call 207-288-3338. Where to Go
![]() Stargazing at Seawall
Explore the night sky from the west side of Mount Desert Island while enjoying the ocean soundscape. ![]() Stargazing at Jordan Pond
Capture the night sky from different viewpoints around Acadia’s clearest lake. ![]() Stargazing at Ocean Path
Ocean Path offers many locations and opportunities for viewing and photographing the night sky. ![]() Stargazing at Sand Beach
Enjoy gazing up into the cosmos nestled comfortably on a blanket on Acadia’s only and very popular sandy beach. Know Before You GoAstronomy can be daunting for beginners, but stargazing does not have to be hard. The two keys to enjoying a gaze up into the cosmos are going out in the proper conditions and arriving prepared. Best Stargazing Conditions
![]() Photo by Ashley L. Conti, Friends of Acadia, NPS Stargazing Preparation and SafetyWhat to Bring
Safety First
AstrophotographyAstrophotograhy is a type of photography involving the night skies. Although these images are different than what our human eyes can see, photographers use long exposure shots to capture the beauty of stars, constellations, and the Milky Way in a dramatic and inspiring way. Additional Resources![]() Acadia's Night Skies
Acadia National Park possesses remarkably dark skies for its proximity to Portland, Boston, and New York. ![]() National Parks and Night Skies
Learn more about ways the National Park Service protects night skies across the country. |
Last updated: September 1, 2023