News Release

Cape Lookout National Seashore Hosts Two Nights of Astronomy Events

Date: October 4, 2022
Contact: Nate Toering, 252-838-8909

HARKERS ISLAND, NC – –Cape Lookout National Seashore, a certified International Dark Sky Park, welcomes night sky enthusiasts for two Astronomy Nights in October.

On Friday, October 14th at 6:30PM, NASA Solar System Ambassador Matthew Bruce will provide an introduction to the new James Webb Space Telescope in the Harkers Island Visitor Center Theater. This presentation will be followed by a night-sky viewing opportunity hosted by the Crystal Coast Stargazers (a NASA Night Sky Network astronomy club.) Join club members as they lend their expertise and their telescopes for a night of stargazing and planet viewing until 10:00PM. The Solar System Ambassador program will happen regardless of weather; however, the telescope viewing is a weather-dependent activity.

On Saturday, October 15th, Island Express Ferry Service will host a starlight cruise to the Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Once there, NASA Solar System Ambassador Brandon Porter will give a laser-pointed tour of the celestial objects in the night sky. The ferry departs the Harkers Island Visitor Center promptly at 6:15PM and will return from the lighthouse at 8:30PM. Space on the cruise is limited and reservations are required. The program is free, however the ferry is $27 for adults & $17 for children (11 and under). Those interested in making reservations may call the ferry directly at 252-728-7433. Beginning at 7:00PM, the Crystal Coast Stargazers will have their telescopes set up for a second night of public stargazing near the Harkers Island Visitor Center, concluding at 10:00PM.

Both events are kid-friendly, but we kindly request no pets. Stargazing & ferry transportation is weather dependent. Please monitor the weather and/or call the Harkers Island Visitor Center (252-728-2250) before 5:00 P.M. (EDT) to confirm event status.

Make the most of the night by coming prepared. Check the weather and dress accordingly. Also, bring your lawn chairs or blankets, water, snacks, bug repellent, and flashlight with a red filter to help maintain everyone’s night vision.

Folks may also consider bringing their own telescopes to learn how to get the most out of their equipment from members of the Stargazers club.

The program is FREE. For more information, go to http://go.nps.gov/astronomynight