the milky way and many stars above people and telescopes as a ranger points with a green laser
people setting up telescopes in a parking lot at sunset
the milky way and a night sky full of stars over the silhouettes of several small volcano cones

Star Party

Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve

Special Event
  • Every day at 8:30 PM from September 15, 2023 to September 16, 2023
  • Free

Register

Limited parking is available.

Join park rangers and volunteer astronomers Friday and Saturday night for a Craters of the Moon Star Party!
 
Experience the universe under the park's naturally dark skies. Meet at the Caves Area Parking Lot at 8:30 pm for a ranger program given by the Astro Ranger.
Telescope viewing will start around 9:30 pm. Bring a jacket, a chair, water, and a red flashlight.
 
As the only national park unit named for a celestial body, it is fitting that there are many ways to enjoy the night sky at Craters of the Moon. The park has been recognized as an International Dark Sky Park since 2017 and has served as a stand-in for many planetary bodies. Tour the heavens above by taking part of Star Parties, ranger led programs, or by spending an evening of the campground.
 
RV or trailer parking is not available for the event.
 
Camping is not permitted at the visitor center or at parking areas along the Loop Road. If the Lava Flow Campground is full, many camping options are available near the park.

More information

Fees

This event is free to attend.

Location

RV and trailer parking is not available at the event. The event takes place at the Caves Area which is a 20 minute drive from the visitor center.

Latitude and Longitude 43.000000, -114.000000

Schedule

Days:

Every day

Dates:

September 15, 2023 to September 16, 2023

Time:

8:30 PM

Duration:

2 hours and 30 minutes

The event will take place Friday, September 15 and Saturday, September 16. The ranger program will begin at 8:30 pm with telescope viewing beginning around 9:30 pm.

Event Type

  • Campfire/Evening Program
  • Talk
Tags: astronomy, star party, night sky, dark sky park, telescope, ranger program, stargazing