News Release

Fossil Butte National Monument Hosts Star Party & Eclipse Events

Date: August 14, 2017
Contact: Amanda Wilson, 307-877-4455

 
Kemmerer, Wyoming – On Saturday, August 19, 2017, monument staff, volunteers and community partners will host a star party from 7pm to 11pm at the Fossil Butte National Monument visitor center. This event begins with a presentation by Paul Ricketts from the University of Utah’s Physics and Astronomy Department on solar eclipses. Star viewing with telescopes will follow beginning at 8pm, and continue until 11pm, weather permitting. Bring binoculars, warm clothes, and flashlights.
 
There are several other events planned for the weekend including Eclipse Yoga, Ranger Led Programs, and Eclipse Watching Party. Below is the full schedule of events:

• August 19th

  • 9am, Eclipse Yoga: Free one hour outdoor Morning Yoga session. No prior experience needed and all ages are welcome. Mats are provided or bring your own.

  • 10am-3pm, Eclipse Drop-In Programs: Stop by any time to participate in crafts, demonstrations, and children’s activities while learning about the Solar Eclipse! Ranger presentations on solar eclipses will be given at 12pm and 2pm.

  • 7pm, Star Party

• August 20^th

  • 10am-3pm, Eclipse Drop-In Programs: Stop by any time to participate in crafts, demonstrations, and children’s activities while learning about the Solar Eclipse! Ranger presentations on solar eclipses will be given at 12pm and 2pm.

• August 21

  • 9am-12pm, Eclipse Drop-In Programs: Stop by any time to participate in crafts, demonstrations, and children’s activities while learning about the Solar Eclipse!

  • 10am, Eclipse Watching Party: Join us at the monument for a clear view of the big event at 95% totality! Bring your own chair and join us! We will have a limited number of eclipse viewing glasses available.

All events will take place at the Fossil Butte visitor center and are free of charge.
 
If you are planning to travel to Grand Teton National Park to view the eclipse, be aware that August 21 is anticipated to be the busiest day in the history of Grand Teton National Park. 
 Here are some tips you can do to prepare for August 21:

• Pack your patience

• Expect heavy traffic on roads leading to Grand Teton National Park

• Give yourself plenty of time to travel to and from your destination

• Do not expect to have cell phone service, even in areas where it is normally available

• Arrive with enough food, water, and fuel in your vehicle for the entire day

• Bring appropriate eclipse viewing glasses and solar filters for cameras, binoculars, or telescopes. A limited number of glasses will be available at the Eclipse Viewing party.

For more information on current conditions, summer Ranger Led programs, and updates on park activities, visit https://www.nps.gov/fobu/planyourvisit/2017-solar-eclipse.htm , call 307-877-4455, or follow FossilButteNPS on social media.