News Release

Star Program and Hours of Operation Change at John Day Fossil Beds

NASA/JPL-Caltech/Space Science Institute

News Release Date: September 1, 2017 Kimberly, Oregon – John Day Fossil Beds National Monument will host a free star program presented by John Fiedor, retired National Park Service Ranger, on September 16, 2017. Meet at the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center, nine miles west of Dayville, at 6:30 pm to listen to an engaging astronomy program followed by outdoor viewing of stars and planets. A program will be presented regardless of weather. No need to make reservations, but do bring warm clothing, a flashlight, and a sense of wonder.

“We are so excited to host the annual fall star program,” Superintendent Shelley Hall says, “with telescopes, Saturn and its rings should be readily visible in the dark skies above John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.”

Beginning September 18, 2017, the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center will be open daily, 10 am – 5 pm. See over 500 fossils on display with artistic murals, watch the 18-minute park orientation film, and become a Junior Ranger. The park does not charge an entrance fee.