![]() Thursday, September 22, 2022 – Saturday, September 24, 2022Dark skies are achingly beautiful, scientifically valuable, and carry centuries of human story. Every year, Black Canyon hosts an Astronomy Festival to provide the opportunity for visitors to experience this disappearing resource, and learn about how important it is to protect. Come celebrate with us! Most events are held on the South Rim of the park. Events include an astro activity table during the day, ranger talks, guest speaker programs, and stargazing each night. Rangers, volunteers, and the Black Canyon Astronomical Society (BCAS) will provide telescopes for viewing, or project deep sky objects onto Black Canyon’s big screen. We’ll also bring the excitement to Montrose, Colorado with an evening lecture followed by stargazing to kick off the festival on Thursday, September 22. Read on for the 2022 schedule. ![]() Photo Credit: Joyce Tanihara Daytime Events:Astro Activity Table: Convert your flashlight to a night-sky friendly red light! Play our trivia game and win a prize! Learn about Mars and Exoplanets with Astronomers Evening Events:Thursday, September 22 Dark Skies Talk: Dr. Sharolyn Anderson, physical scientist with the National Parks Natural Sounds and Night Skies Division, will present a talk about the value of dark skies and how the National Park Service protects night skies in parks.
Friday, September 23 Dark Skies Talk: Dr. Sharolyn Anderson, physical scientist with the National Parks Natural Sounds and Night Skies Division, will discuss dark skies at Black Canyon and in the National Park Service. Stargazing with Telescopes: Contemplate constellations or peak at a planet through a telescope. Telescopes will be set up at an open area located next to the campground. Location signs will be posted.
Saturday, September 24 Ranger Talk: Join a park ranger for an astronomy talk entitled “We Are Explorers” Night Sky Viewing: An electronically assisted astronomy (EAA) viewing will be offered at the amphitheater. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn constellations and view galaxies, nebulae, and other deep sky objects projected onto the big screen. What to Bring?
All events are subject to change or cancelation due to weather. Black Canyon's astronomy program, including this festival, is made possible through our partnership with the Black Canyon Astronomical Society. |
Last updated: September 20, 2022