News Release
Travis Novitsky
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GRAND PORTAGE, Minn. — Grand Portage National Monument invites the public to discover the mesmerizing wonders of the night sky during a special Star Party, offered in partnership with the National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation on Thursday, Aug. 6.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the cosmos with Jesse Gates, dark sky specialist at Voyageurs Conservancy and NASA Solar System Ambassador, who will lead an engaging introduction to stargazing suitable for all experience levels. Joining Jesse is local Grand Portage nature and night sky photographer Travis Novitsky, who will offer a captivating session on dark-sky photography and share techniques for capturing the stars in striking detail. This event provides a unique opportunity to ask questions, learn new skills, and deepen appreciation for the incredible beauty shining above us.
Star Party Program Highlights
The Heritage Center will be open from 9 - 10:30 pm, offering:
- Night sky presentations
- Junior Night Ranger activity
- S’mores station
A night sky presentation begins at 9:30 pm at the Heritage Center. At 10 pm, guests are invited to the Historic Depot to participate in the remainder of the evening's activities, which include:
- Viewing the stars through telescopes in dark skies
- Learning about constellations with guidance from Jesse Gates
- Participating in field-based night sky photography instruction led by Travis Novitsky
If weather conditions do not cooperate, all activities will move indoors to the Heritage Center.
Grand Portage National Monument is a fee-free site co-managed with the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and was established to preserve a vital center of fur trade activity and Anishinaabeg Ojibwe heritage.
About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov
Last updated: July 27, 2026