Greetings from Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
We are excited to announce that the annual
Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival is kicking off its eighth year on
Saturday August fifteenth. But something is different this year. It's no surprise that
this summer has been unlike any we have experienced before.
The park has faced many changes to combat the ongoing
pandemic of COVID-19, including the alteration of normal
National Park Service operations, services, and ranger programs.
For the last several years, Theodore Roosevelt National Park has welcomed night sky
enthusiasts of all ages and different levels of expertise to
this spectacular event to share the passion and interest for all things night
sky. This year, to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus,
park staff and National Park Service volunteers are taking
Dakota Nights to a virtual online experience.
From topics including globular clusters to constellations,
engaging hands-on activities for children, exploring the magic of star
lore, and learning about special adaptations of some amazing
nighttime animals, you can join us from the comfort of your home as we
explore the wonders of the night-time environment. Follow our Facebook page this week as we share
more information on the specific topics being discussed for this year's Dakota
Nights.
The day before the festival we will share a schedule of the topics and
times being covered with events kicking off at eight o'clock am mountain standard time.
We are eager to share the dazzling beauty and mystery of the night sky with you
during this virtual experience. See you Saturday, August fifteenth.