![]() Death Valley offers some of the best stargazing in America. The International Dark-Sky Association has designated Death Valley National Park a Gold Tier Dark Sky Park, which is the highest rating of darkness. During our annual spring Dark Sky Festival, visitors are invited to come explore the night sky and the unique park landscapes which can help us better understand wonders beyond our world. This event is a collaboration between Death Valley National Park, our non-profit partner Death Valley Natural History Association, NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Ames Research Center, SETI Institute and California Institute of Technology.
Event ScheduleThe 2023 festival is almost here! This year's festival dates are February 10-12. Click the images below for festival events. We hope to see you there! ![]() Auditorium TalksAttend a talk to learn about the mysteries of the universe and how we explore them. ![]() Exploration FairParticipate in hands on activities at various booths. ![]() Talks Around the ParkLearn from a scientist out in the field. ![]() Astrophotography MeetupsTake night photos in one of the darkest places in the United States. ![]() Astronomy ProgramsLearn about the night sky through ranger talks and telescope viewings. ![]() Family ProgramsActivities for the whole family Event Schedule by DayFurnace Creek Auditorium PresentationsAstrophotography “How-to” Session Keynote TalkExploration of Venus Astrophotography Meet-upsAn opportunity to photograph the stars in one of the darkest locations in the country. Astrophotography volunteers and rangers will be on hand to assist. A DSLR and tripod are essential to enjoy this session Caltech Presents: Astronomy on Tap Ranger Program Furnace Creek Auditorium PresentationsThe Dynamic Landscape of Death Valley, As Seen By NASA's NISAR Mission Keynote TalkThe Cosmic Autobiography Talks Around the ParkSearching for Signs of Ancient Life on a Cold and Desolate Mars Astronomy ProgramsMoon Walk Astrophotography Meet-upAn opportunity to photograph the stars in one of the darkest locations in the country. Astrophotography volunteers and rangers will be on hand to assist. A DSLR and tripod are essential to enjoy this session Family ProgramBuild A Mars Lander Exploration FairExplore the booths at the Exploration Fair to talk with scientists and participate in hands on activities. Furnace Creek Auditorium PresentationsThe Dynamic Landscape of Death Valley, As Seen By NASA's NISAR Mission Talks Around the ParkSearching for Signs of Ancient Life on a Cold and Desolate Mars Astronomy ProgramsFurnace Creek Star Party Family ProgramBuild A Mars Lander Exploration FairExplore the booths at the Exploration Fair to talk with scientists and participate in hands on activities. Where to StayThe park gets busy during the festival, so we recommend making reservations early. Camping and lodging options are available. Enjoying the Park at NightWant to experience Death Valley at night but can't make it for the festival? Rangers have created a list of some of the best ways to explore Death Valley after dark. ![]() © Patrick Taylor |
Last updated: January 25, 2023