News Release

Cape Lookout National Seashore’s Astronomy Night Commemorates the 50th Anniversary of the Apollo Moonwalk

Date: July 15, 2019
Contact: B.G. Horvat, 252-838-8906

HARKERS ISLAND, NC – Cape Lookout National Seashore is pleased to announce a special edition of Astronomy Night celebrating the 50^th anniversary of Apollo 11’s Moon landing on Saturday, July 20^th, at the Harkers Island Visitor Center, from 8:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.
 
NASA Solar System Ambassador, Lisa Pelletier-Harmon, will present a 45-minute presentation in the Harkers Island Theater entitled, Moon2Mars. The program will highlight the significance of human achievements during the first landing. Then, focus on where NASA is heading next. There are some big surprises in store, as NASA takes us back to believing anything is possible and rebuilds the excitement of exploration not seen since the original ‘Race to the Moon’.    

Immediately after the presentation, park staff and local astronomers from the Crystal Coast Stargazers, a NASA Night Sky Network Astronomy Club, will host a Star Party (weather dependent) in front of the visitor center. This will offer curious participants the chance to witness the moon, and other sky-bound objects above the Southern Outer Banks through the lens of a telescope. Fun activities for the kids will be on hand, too.

Make the most of the night by coming prepared.  Check the weather and dress accordingly. Also, bring water, snacks, bug repellent, and flashlight with a red filter that helps in maintaining everyone’s night vision.

Folks may also consider bringing their own telescopes to learn how to get the most out of their own telescopic equipment from members of the Stargazers club.
 
The program is FREE. For more information, go to http://go.nps.gov/astronomynight.