The Astronomy Events Calendar

Regional, National and International Star Parties and other Astronomy Events

Hosted by AmSky, the on-line mega-magazine for amateur astronomy

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JANUARY
January 14 - 17, 2010
Star Party Down Under
Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary
Flinders Ranges, South Australia , Australia 		Canceled due to sanctuary maintenance. Will resume in 2011.
January 15, 2010
Partial Solar Eclipse Observation
Pekan Rabu, Langkawi
Kuah, Langkawi, Malaysia 		Public outreach and observation of the partial solar eclipse schedule to happen early and late afternoon local time. Organize by National Planetarium group and Falak Online
January 15 - 16, 2010
Death Valley Star Party
Death Valley National Park/Furnace Creek Resort
Las Vegas, Nevada, USA 		Furnace Creek Inn and Ranch Resort in Death Valley National Park invites the Las Vegas Astronomical Society to conduct their Annual Death Valley Star Party. Enjoy crystal clear desert skies at night. During the day enjoy horseback riding, golfing the world's lowest golf course, biking, touring Death Valley National Park, tennis, spa treatments, spring-fed pools, and gourmet meals at the beautiful Furnace Creek Resort. Call Phyllis at (760) 786-3353 for special Resort rates and additional information.
January 23, 2010
Regional Meeting of Amateur Astronomers
Gardner-Webb University
Boiling Springs , North Carolina, USA 		This year's event will again feature speakers, vendors, swap-tables, door prizes and an astrophotography/sketching contest.
January 23, 2010
18th Annual Regional Meeting of Amateur Astronomers
Gardner-Webb University / Ritch Banquet Hall
Boiling Springs, North Carolina, USA 		The Cleveland County Astronomical Society will host the 18th Annual Regional Meeting of Amateur Astronomers This event opens at 8:00am with programs beginning at 10:00am. Featured will be speakers, astrophotography displays and contest, swap tables, equipment vendors, prize drawings, fellowship with amateur astronomers from the region, and a chance to find out about local events and facilities. solar and night observing (weather premitting)
FEBRUARY
February 5 - 6, 2010
European AstroFest
Kensington Town Hall
London, England, United Kingdom 		Europe's largest astronomy and space convention, organized by Astronomy Now magazine.
February 8 - 13, 2010
Cedar Key Star Party
Cheifland Astronomy Village
Cedar Key, Florida , USA 		This star party is held at Cedar Key which is about 50 miles southwest of Gainesville on the gulf coast. The Cheifland Astronomy Village is about 20 min away.
February 10 - 14, 2010
Orange Blossom Special Annual Star Party
Withlacoochee River County Park
Dade City, Florida, USA 		Our event is 5 days and 4 nights of observing and conversations with others interested in or just learning the wonders of the Universe. Things to do at the star party along with the viewing of the dark skies include astronomy related lectures, solar viewing, watching mirror grinding in action, nature hikes, learnig what type telescope (or binoculars) will work best for you, hayrides, musical jam sessions, swap table, door prizes and much more. It is a great event geared for the whole family.
February 10 - 13, 2010
2009 Winter Star Party (SCAS Event)
Florida Keys
Marathon, Florida, USA 		Get set for The Winter Star Party! The 26th Annual Winter Star Party is scheduled for February 8 - 13, 2010 on West Summerland Key (a.k.a. "Spanish Harbor Key") in the Florida Keys. Astrophotographers and amateur astronomers often bring their families from across the U.S. and around the globe to make it a truly international event. Southern winter skies are a real treat for our Canadian and northern friends! This special 6 day long "Stellar Star Party" includes vendors promoting their latest products for amateur astronomy, nationally recognized guest speakers, a popular "Kids Kamp", mirror-grinding lessons, the ever popular door prize giveaway on Friday afternoon and much more!
February 20, 2010
Wagman Winterfest
Deer Lakes Park
Russellton, Pennsylvania, USA 		Nearly completely cloudy skies at Wagman Winterfest XVI, held Feb. 28, 2009, kept visitors from seeing much besides the sun, which looked like a brilliant blob, and briefly the glow of the moon. Still, nearly 60 visitors joined us and nearly everyone had a great time.
February 20, 2010
Whipple Observatory Public Star Party
United States of America
AMADO, AZ, United States of America 		This event was cancelled due to rain. Look for the rescheduled date soon.
MARCH
March 9, 2010
SAS MARCH 9, 2010 Monthly Meeting
United States of America
GREEN VALLEY, AZ, United States of America 		SPEAKER: Ken Graun, author of beginning astronomy books and star charts for children and adults, at 7:30pm TITLE: "Tour of the Solar System” ABSTRACT: Sit back and enjoy a fun and visual presentation about our solar system. Nothing heavy here but you will go away with a better feeling for the order, spacing, composition, and size of our Sun and planets. And, I will talk about the demotion of Pluto.
March 10 - 14, 2010
Hodges Gardens Star Party
Hodges Gardens State Park
Florien, Louisiana, USA 		The Baton Rouge Astronomical Society invites everyone to join us for the 2nd Annual Hodges Gardens Star Party (formerly the Kisatchie Star Party). This is our tenth year to host this event (8 at Kisatchie, 2 now at Hodges Gardens). One big change from last year is that we can now bring RVs into the park.
March 10, 2010
Tri Star
Guilford Technical Community College
Jamestown, North Carolina, USA 		The Triad Starfest, *Tri*Star* for short, is a gathering of astronomers of all types, from novice to professional, for a full day of presentations, displays, and observing. The event allows astronomy enthusiasts to share ideas, learn about a range of astronomical topics, get together with old friends, and make new ones. The event will draw astronomers from North Carolina and surrounding states.
March 10 - 14, 2010
Kielder Forest Star Camp
Kielder Forest
Bellingham, Northumberland, UK 		A five night star party under England's darkest sky in the remote Border region.
March 12 - 14, 2010
Mid Atlantic Mirror Making Seminar
Mallard Lodge, Smyrna DE
Smyrna, DE, USA 		The purpose of the Seminar is to introduce proven successful mirror making techniques and practices to those wishing to make their own mirrors. Special emphasis will be placed on successfully figuring the mirror. All mirror-making materials will be furnished and expert mirror makers will be available to guide each person’s activities. We will begin with 6” F-8, 8” F-6, and 10” F-6 mirrors and tools with diamond generated curves; ready for 220 grit. Successful mirror makers will leave the Seminar with a fine-figured mirror ready for aluminizing. They will also have the skills, knowledge and confidence to repeat the process as desired. Although our purpose is to ensure each mirror maker is successful, there is no guarantee of results.
March 12 - 14, 2010
Mid-Atlantic Mirror Making Seminar
Mallard Lodge
Smyrna, Delaware, USA 		The purpose of the Seminar is to introduce proven successful mirror making techniques and practices to those wishing to make their own mirrors. Special emphasis will be placed on successfully figuring the mirror. All mirror-making materials will be furnished and expert mirror makers will be available to guide each person's activities. We will begin with 6" F-8, 8" F-6, and 10" F-6 mirrors and tools with diamond generated curves; ready for 220 grit. Successful mirror makers will leave the Seminar with a fine-figured mirror ready for aluminizing. They will also have the skills, knowledge and confidence to repeat the process as desired. Although our purpose is to ensure each mirror maker is successful, there is no guarantee of results.
March 13 - 14, 2010
All-Arizona Messier Marathon
Farnsworth Ranch
Arizona City, Arizona, USA
March 13, 2010
Sun-Day on Saturday
Kitt Peak National Observatory
56 miles SW of Tucson, Arizona, United States 		Learn what the Sun is, how it works, and how to safely observe it in action. Tours of the world’s largest solar telescope and direct observation of the Sun itself will highlight the program. Hands-on activities will also be featured.
March 19 - 21, 2010
Intro To Astrophotography
Kitt Peak National Observatory (56 miles southwest of Tucson)
Tucson, Arizona, United States 		Three-day workshop intended for those who are ready to take the next step into the world of astrophotography and image processing. We will cover everything from the history of photography itself to modern cameras, webcams, and CCD image processing. Avoid years of false-starts and costly mistakes. Learn how to create stunning astrophotos like those seen in books and magazines. Instruction will cover imaging techniques for a wide range of budgets and equipment.
March 20, 2010
International Sidewalk Astronomy Night
various places around the world
 Sidewalk Astronomers will be taking to the streets to share the night sky with the public around the world on the evening of March 20.
March 27, 2010
3rd Annual Swap N Sell
Aviation Heritage Center
Sheboygan Falls, WI, US 		The Sheboygan Astronomical Society will be holding their 3rd Annual Swap N Sell. A brat fry will be hosted by EAA Chapter 766, so stop in to see the astronomical stuff for sale and enjoy a delicious brat!
APRIL
April 3 - 5, 2009
Central European Deepsky Imaging Conference
Ars Electronica Center
Linz, Austria 		CEDIC (Central European Deepsky Imaging Conference) will open its doors the first time in 2009 and will be the first astronomical imaging conference throughout Europe. Information and communication across local borders should be the main focus of this event. Two whole days of sessions - covering all topics regarding astronomical imaging - should establish a new pan european information standard; for professionals as well as for beginners.
April 8 - 11, 2010
Southern New Mexico Star Party
City of Rocks State Park
Silver City, NM, USA 		The event takes place at New Mexico's City of Rocks State Park - home to thousands of strange monolithic rock formations found in only six other locations in the world. Great dark skies.
April 9 - 10, 2010
Central Texas Star Party
Eagle Eye Observatory
Lake Buchanan, Texas, USA
April 9, 2010
Public Skywatch at Belleplain State Forest
Belleplain State Forest
Cape May County, New Jersey, USA 		The South Jersey Astronomy Club hosts public skywatches at Belleplain State Forest throughout the year. Skywatch details are posted on our home index page. Skywatches usually begins about 7:30PM, and admission is free! Once inside Belleplain State Forest, just follow the signs to the public parking lot (free) and then walk the short distance on to the observing field.
April 9 - 11, 2010
Messier Marathon 2010
Bruneau Dunes State Park and Observatory
Mountain Home Idaho, Idaho, USA 		Casual gathering of Boise Astronomical Society and all welcome friends for Messier Marathon Observing on Friday and Saturday nights at Bruneau Dunes State Park and Observatory in the Eagle Cove Campground. All sites have water and Electric plus there is a nice bath house with flush toilets and showers. Reserve your own site at http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/ There is no registration fee for the star party however, there will be a VOLUNTARY potluck dinner Saturday evening for those who wish to bring a dish to share.
April 10, 2010
OMSI Astronomical Photometry, Spectroscopy and Astrometry Workshop
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
Portland, OR, USA 		The workshop labs will demonstrate step-by-step techniques in making photometry and spectroscopy measurements. The spectroscopy workshop labs will demonstrate the principles of spectroscopy instruments.
April 12 - 15, 2010
Mid-South Star Gaze & Astronomy Conference
Rainwater Observatory
French Camp, Mississippi, USA 		Astronomy conference and star party under dark skies near the Natchez Trace Parkway in central Mississippi. Site of Sangre .65m telescope facility. Observing, talks by professional and amateur astronomers, vendors, astro education activities workshop, and more.
April 14 - 17, 2010
Mid-South Star Gaze
Rainwater Observatory
French Camp, Mississippi, USA 		Astronomy conference and star party with speakers, educational workshop, and vendors. .65m Sangre telescope available
April 15 - 18, 2010
Annual Meeting of the AAVSO
Valle Grande Hotel and Resort
Mendoza, Argentina
April 15 - 19, 2010
The Spring Star Party
Kelling Heath
Weybourne, England, United Kingdom
April 15 - 16, 2010
NorthEast Astro-Imaging Conference (NEAIC)
Rockland Community College
Suffern, NY, USA 		The east coast's largest and oldest amateur conference on astronomical imaging.
April 15 - 18, 2010
Star Gaze Star Party XVI
Tuckahoe State Park Equestrian Center
Queen Anne, Maryland, USA 		The registration fee includes camping fee for the observing area. ALL NIGHT STARGAZER COFFEE, as always, will be free. Bottled water, sodas and hot dogs will be available at minimal cost. Campers will be permitted to park and set up by their scopes, but there are no hookups or electricity in the observation area. Porta potties are on site with full rest rooms and bathing facilities a short drive away. We are also having some great special entertainment.
April 16 - 17, 2010
North Central Region of the Astronomical League Convention
Bloomington-Normal, Illinois, USA 		he theme of the meeting is Generations: Past, Present and Future of the Telescope We will discuss the beginnings of modern astronomy to Galileo, his life and instruments and his tragic end. We will follow through the Evolution of Modern Astronomy discussing the people and their scientific instruments that have expanded our understanding of the universe. We will try to give you a peek at the Future of Modern Astronomy discussing the current and planned developments astronomy.
April 16 - 18, 2010
Tennessee Spring Star Party
Fall Creek falls State Park
Pikeville, Tennessee, USA 		Friday setup at 2:00pm-Speakers on Saturday-Observing both Friday and Saturday nights-Jonn Serrie concert Friday evening. Venders at Inn-No registration fee. Pack up by 2:00pm Sunday-See details at CAS website or e-mail
April 17 - 18, 2010
Northeast Astronomy Forum & Telescope Show
Rockland Community College
Suffern, NY, USA 		THIS EXCITING TWO-DAY EVENT FEATURES: More than 100 on-site vendors, World-renowned speakers, Astro-imaging workshops, Daily solar observing, STARLAB planetarium shows, Getting Started classes for beginners, Space & Astronomy events for kids.
April 17, 2010
SAS Astronomy Day
TBD
TUCSON, ARIZONA, United States of America 		Solar and Star Party
April 18 - 19, 2009
NorthEast Astronomy Forum (NEAF)
Rockland Community College
Suffern, NY, USA 		The world's largest astronomy show! Over 100 vendors, 8 speakers, Saturday and Sunday Workshops and much, much more.
April 23 - 26, 2009
Two Rivers Spring Star Party
Heavens Gate Farm
Barry, Illinois, USA 		We invite you to come enjoy a weekend under the Stars at the First Annual Two Rivers Spring Star Party. Explore the Universe on a 20 acre field under visual limiting Mag 6 skies. Guest Speakers, Raffle Drawing. Campers and Rv's along with pets are welcome. Visit the Birth Place of Mark Twain, Shopping nearby, Come work on an Astronomical Society Certificate, meet new friends, or get re-aquaitinted with old friends, Pre-Registration ends March 15th, walk ups will be higher. Catering is available. We are hard to find but worth the drive.
April 24, 2010
Astronomy Day
Everywhere, 		Contact the Astronomy Day Headquarters or astronomy club or planetarium nearest you for more information. Be sure to put "Astronomy Day" in subject line.
April 25, 2009
Dark Sky Gaze
Lake Hudson State Park
Clayton, MI, USA 		Dark Sky Preserve - Daily or Annual State Park entry fee needed to enter. Summer site is the picic area - Winter site is the beach. It is a public park and may have an occasional headlight problem.
MAY
May 1, 2010
AstroDay Festival
Prince Kuhio Plaza
Hilo, Hawaii, USA 		The 9th Annual award winning AstrDay Festival will be back at the Prince Kuhio Plaza in Hilo, Hawaii on Saturday, May 1st from 10 am until 5 pm. Featuring Mauna Kea Observatory exhibits, demonstrations and presentations, Hawaiian Culture displays, student science projects, StarLab Planetarium shows, liquid nitrogen demonstrations, scholastic robotics demonstrations, telescope viewing and a Kids Corner with fun activities. There will be a presentation of the Excellence in Teaching award and Hawaiian slack key music. Many prizes to give away! Admission is free and open to the public. Contact Gary Fujihara at (808) 932-2328 or email him at fujmon@mac.com or visit http://www.astroday.net for more information.
May 2, 2009
Astronomy Day
Novins Planetarium
Toms River, New Jersey, USA
May 5, 2009
Astronomy Day
Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park
Carlsbad, New Mexico, USA
May 6 - 9, 2010
The Joshua Tree Astronomy Festival
Joshua Tree Lake Campground and RV Park
Joshua Tree, California, USA 		A long weekend of star gazing and fun in Joshua Tree! Live projected images of deep space with large apertures and powerful cameras. Visual, large aperture observing combined with late springtime adventures in Joshua Tree National Park. This is our second astronomy event using the new technology of electronically assisted observing. Six 9 foot by 12 foot screens will be available to other video astronomers to put their images up for all to see our universe from the new Joshua Tree Astronomy Theater. Check out the updates on our web site as we close in on the date. Everyone is welcome! Camping reservations to be made with the venue. See our web site for more info! Thanks, AMSKY! and fellow astronomy fans! Team www.scdva.org
May 9 - 16, 2010
Texas Star Party
3500 acre ranch
Ft. Davis, TX, USA 		Week-long gathering of 500+ amateur astronomers under very dark skies, afternoon and evening talks, vendors, astrophoto, sketching, ATM, and observing activities and contests.
May 11 - 13, 2010
Symposium on Telescope Science
Northwoods Resort
Big Bear Lake, CA, USA 		The 29th Annual Symposium on Telescope Science will conduct a joint meeting with CENTER FOR BACKYARD ASTROPHYSICS (CBA) emphasizing amateur research and amateur-profess-ional collaboration. Papers are presented on latest CCD and Photometry research and techniques.
May 12 - 16, 2010
Teleskoptreffen
Frankfurt, Germany
May 12 - 16, 2010
RTMC Astronomy Expo
Camp Oakes
Big Bear City, CA, USA 		Located high in the San Bernardino Mountains near Big Bear City, California, the RTMC Astronomy Expo is the premier astronomy gathering in the west.
May 13 - 16, 2010
Rencontres Astronomiques du Printemps (RAP)
Craponne-sur-Arzon
Saint-Etienne, Le Puy en Velay, France 		With more than 500 members, this is one of the largest event in France and Western Europe, from the binocular to the 800 mm dobson. See our website at http://www.astrorap.fr
May 13 - 16, 2010
Georgia Sky View -
Indian Springs State Park - Camp McIntosh
Jackson, GA, USA 		The Flint River Astronomy Club will again host its annual Georgia Sky View star party at the beautiful Indian Springs State Park just outside Flovilla, Georgia. This is 4-day/3night event starting at 2 PM May 13th through May 16th, 2010. Facilities include a large viewing field, large dining hall, craft & display building, men's and women's dormitories complete with showers, and on-field camping. Motor homes welcomed but no hookup facilities are available. The "Pot Luck" dinner is on again for this year. FRAC will provide the burgers and soft drinks, you bring your favorite dish. Hope to see you there. Steve Bentley Georgia SKy View Coordinator Flint River Astronomy Club wd4ity@bellsouth.net 478-994-4552
May 14 - 16, 2010
South Pacific Star Party
Wiruna - ASNSW's Premier Dark Sky Site
Ilford, New South Wales, Australia 		The South Pacific Star Party (SPSP) is an Annual gathering of Amateur and professionl Astronomers from across Australia and the World. The SPSP typically includes formal daytime workshops, as well as formal and informal lectures, while evening events include observing, socialising, and public sky tours for those of you who are not so familiar with the stellar skyscape, or if you just want to view some of the more obscure objects in the sky.
May 14 - 16, 2010
Southern Star Astronomical Convention
Wildacres Retreat
Little Switzerland, North Carolina, USA 		The 2010 Southern Star Astronomical Convention is preparing for another great astronomy event! Thanks for your past support of this terrific astronomy conference. Check back in February 2010 for the 2010 convention information. www.charlotteastronomers.org
May 14 - 16, 2010
Michiana Star Party 3
Potawatomi Wildlife Park
Tippecanoe, Indiana, USA 		The Michiana Astronomical Society will be hosting their third annual star party (MSP3) at the Potawatomi Wildlife Park in Tippecanoe, Indiana on May 14-16, 2010. Potawatomi Park is recognized as the first established Dark Sky Preserve in Indiana. Please visit our website for more information: www.Michiana-Astro.org. Contact: Linda Marks Phone: 574-274-8885 Email: saccuosti@aol.com URL: http://www.Michiana-Astro.org
May 17, 2009
Northern California Historical Astronomy Luncheon and Discus
Oakland, California, USA
May 21 - 25, 2009
Adult Astronomy Camp
Mt. Lemmon Observatory
Tucson, Arizona, USA 		Astronomy Camps are immersion adventures in DOING science. Students become astronomers operating large telescopes (20, 40, 60, 61-inch diameters), interacting with leading scientists, and interpreting their own scientific measurements. The Camps are held in the "Sky Island" environment of Mt. Lemmon Observatory (9200 feet). Students observe and record celestial objects to learn first-hand about astronomy, physics, mathematics, and engineering. Camps include daytime lectures with hands-on activities about forefront topics as well as space art, field trips, group research projects, etc. Career opportunities are modeled by University faculty and by undergraduate and graduate students counselors. No prior knowledge of astronomy is required.
May 22 - 25, 2009
Spring Star Party
AstroAcres
Beaver City, Indiana, USA 		New for 2009, the spring star party event at AstroAcres is intended to revive the spirit of NIAGfest. Ongoing investment and development at AstroAcres (www.astroacres.com) makes it the most exciting place in the Midwest for a starparty. Much more information is available at www.starparty.info
May 23, 2009
Dark Sky Gaze
Lake Hudson State Park
Clayton, MI, USA 		Dark Sky Preserve - Daily or Annual State Park entry fee needed to enter. Summer site is the picic area - Winter site is the beach. It is a public park and may have an occasional headlight problem.
JUNE
June 5 - 12, 2010
Grand Canyon Star Party
Grand Canyon National Park north and south rim
Flagstaff, AZ, USA 		The Grand Canyon Star Party is a public star party. You can volunteer with your telescope, or just join us under some of the darkest skies in the country. See the website for details.
June 5, 2010
Starconn
Wesleyan University
Middletown, Connecticut, USA 		This annual day-long astronomy "convention" is held at the Science Center at Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT Professor William Herbst and Professor Edward Moran, department chair & the staff at the Van Vleck Observatory are our hosts to make this event possible.
June 5 - 12, 2010
Southern Skies Star Party
Lake Titicaca
Bolivia 		Annual summer star parties held in Bolivia.With views of the sky so stunning the summer milky way casts a shadow on the ground. Often, astronomers challenge each other to spot objects reflected in the calm lake, or reflected in hotel windows. Some visitors have even reported observing through the hotel window with binoculars. The high altitude and calm seeing provide arguably the highest contrast views of any observing site on earth.
June 9 - 13, 2010
Rocky Mountain Star Stare 2010
Gardner, CO
Westcliffe, CO, USA 		The Colorado Springs Astronomical Society has purchased their own land and will now host RMSS on its property. More information on the new site and RMSS can be found at our website. Incredible fields of stars by night are supplemented by day with workshops, children's activities, door prizes, catered meals and fun for everyone. To register or get more info, http://www.rmss.org.
June 10 - 16, 2009
Beginning Teen Astronomy Camp
Kitt Peak National Observatory
Tucson, Arizona, USA 		Astronomy Camps are immersion adventures in DOING science. Students become astronomers and observe with large telescopes (16-90" diameters), interact with leading scientists, and interpret their own scientific measurements. The Camps are held on Kitt Peak National Observatory (6800 feet). Students observe and record celestial objects to learn first-hand about astronomy, physics, mathematics, and engineering. Camps include daytime lectures with hands-on activities about forefront topics as well as space art, field trips, group research projects, etc. Career opportunities are modeled by University faculty and by undergraduate and graduate students counselors. No prior knowledge of astronomy is required.
June 11 - 13, 2010
4th Annual Bootleg Astronomers Star Party
Green River Conservation Area
Harmon, Il, USA 		Come and explore the night skies with us under some of the darkest skies in the State of Illinois. We promise... You will be "WOWED"! Upon your arrival you will receive an informational packet provided by us, including your ticket for our fabulous door prize give-a way. We will provide free coffee, hot chocolate, & tea both nights. Tent & RV camping. Water and sanitary facilities on site. Electricity to charge your batteries/packs is available as well. We will provide several battery chargers for your use. (note, this is a wilderness area). Motels are available in nearby Princeton off I-80. Please visit our website for our registration form. "Bootleg Astronomers", Pillaging the Universe one Star at a time." http://bootlegastronomy.com/
June 11 - 12, 2010
Craters of the Moon Star Party
Craters of the Moon National Monument
Arco, Idaho, USA
June 12 - 13, 2009
39th Annual Apollo Rendezvous Convention & Star Party
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Dayton, Ohio, USA 		39th Annual Apollo Rendezvous and the MVAS 91st Anniversary Convention & BBQ Star Party in Conjunction with "GreatCon" The Astronomical Leagues Great Lakes Region Convention Hosted by The Miami Valley Astronomical Society on June 12 & 13 of 2009. Guest Speakers: Dave Eicher-Editor of Astronomy Magazine Ron Whitehead-Astronomical League Great Lakes Region Chairman. Tammy Plotner-Author and Astronomy Science Writer. Astrophoto & ATM contests, vendors, swap meet, Digistar, door prizes, concludes with a BBQ & Star Party at an Air Force Satellite Tracking Station, MVAS Dark Sky Site. for registration please go to www.mvas.org or contact Linda Weiss AR Chairperson MVAS Secretary 937-669-5449 secretary@mvas.org or mvas@mvas.org
June 18 - 21, 2009
Cherry Springs Star Party
Cherry Springs State Park
Potter County, Pennsylvania, USA
June 19 - 26, 2009
Advanced Teen Astronomy Camp
Kitt Peak National Observatory
Tucson, Arizona, USA 		Astronomy Camps are immersion adventures in DOING science. Students become astronomers conducting research projects with large optical (16-90" diameters) and radio telescopes (10-12 meters), interacting with leading scientists, and interpreting their own scientific measurements. The Camps are held on Kitt Peak National Observatory (6800 feet). Students observe and record celestial objects to learn first-hand about astronomy, physics, mathematics, and engineering. Camps include daytime lectures with hands-on activities about forefront topics as well as space art, field trips, group research projects, etc. Career opportunities are modeled by University faculty and by undergraduate and graduate students counselors. No prior knowledge of astronomy is required.
June 20, 2009
Dark Sky Gaze
Lake Hudson State Park
Clayton, MI, USA 		Dark Sky Preserve - Daily or Annual State Park entry fee needed to enter. Summer site is the picic area - Winter site is the beach. It is a public park and may have an occasional headlight problem.
June 24 - 28, 2009
Rocky Mountain Star Stare
Gardner
Westcliffe, Colorado, USA 		Rocky Mountain Star Stare 2009! Event dates and location are NOT, I say again, NOT CONFIRMED yet. Please continue to check back or check www.rmss.org for updated information! We have purchased our own land and waiting for it to be finalized.
JULY
July 7 - 10, 2010
Green Bank Star Quest
Green Bank National Radio Observatory
Green Bank, West Virginia, USA
July 7 - 10, 2010
Bryce Canyon Astronomy Festival
Bryce Canyon National Park
Cedar City, Utah, USA 		Annual Astronomy Festival under the last great sanctuary of dark skies. Oriented to general public. Solar viewing, workshops, science lectures, ranger talks, guest speakers, telescope viewing, and dark skies (limiting magnitude 7+). Guest astronomers with telescopes must register prior to arriving.
July 7 - 10, 2009
Green Bank Star Quest
Green Bank National Radio Astronomy Observatory
Green Bank, West Virginia, United States 		Optical and Radio Astronomy Star Party. Presentations by multiple nationally known speakers in indoor climate controlled visitor center. Hot Showers near campsites. Dark skies. Venders. NRAO tours. Located in a beautiful high mountain valley. See web site for more information. Theme: Asteroids, Comets, Meteors and Messier Objects. Carolyn Shoemaker keynote speaker.
July 9 - 12, 2010
Stargazing Manitoulin
Gordon's Park Dark Sky Preserve
Manitoulin Island, Ontario, Canada 		Observe with telescopes & binoculars from the darkest skies in Ontario. 360 degree viewing, no light pollution and extremely dark skies with a 7.5 magnitude. Camping, Public Observing Sessions, Laser Guided Sky Tours, Information Sharing Session, Wine & Cheese Welcome Reception, Swap Meet, Show & Tell, guided educational nature hikes, mini putt challenge, horseshoe tournament & social BBQ Turkey Pot Luck Supper. www.gordonspark.com or 705-859-2470
July 9 - 11, 2010
Mason Dixon Star Party
Footlight Ranch
Wellesville, Pennsylvania, USA 		THIS YEAR WE WILL BE SPONSORING TWO STAR PARTIES. The Summer MDSP will be held Fri, July 9 thru Sun, July 11. This will be the TRADITIONAL MDSP, with guest speakers, vendors, and our popular raffle and of course, the pool will be open. For both events, you will have the option of arriving Wednesday at noon for additional nights of observing. Please feel free to go to the photo gallery at the website to see some of the fun had last year. The Fall MDSP will be held Friday, Oct 8 thru Sun, Oct 10. This will be a NO-FRILLS star party. There will be no guest speakers and no raffle. Just a few days of camaraderie with our friends and observing at night. A food vendor will be at both star parties for our dining pleasure. Hope to see you at the star party.
July 10 - 14, 2010
Golden State Star Party
Frosty Acres Ranch
Adin, California, USA 		Located at Frosty Acres Ranch near Adin in northeast California, GSSP is at an elevation of 4400 feet, with a stunning view of Mount Shasta 66 miles to the west. Our location combines the amenities of nearby towns and distance from city lights.
July 11, 2009
SCAE (Southern California Astronomy Expo) - Seminar Symposium
OPT
Oceanside, California, USA 		SCAE 09 takes place on July 11th and 18th. On the 11th OPT will be hosting an astronomy swap meet that will include many astronomy manufacturers and professionals offering items at special sale prices! Once the swap meet concludes OPT has teamed up with Palomar College to show the very amazing HD-3D movie: Journey on Mars 3D! Immediately after both showings of the movie our distinguished guest speaker from the NASA Mars Exploration Rovers project will be on hand to talk about both Rovers in more specific detail. Also, starting at dusk we will have a variety of telescopes set up at the Palomar College campus for attendees to do some stargazing! The event is free, no registration required. Please see our website for more details and information.
July 11, 2009
SCAE (Southern California Astronomy Expo)
OPT
Oceanside, California, USA 		The SCAE Astronomy Faire will showcase over 40 telescope, CCD, and other astronomy product manufacturers! SCAE 2008 kicks off at 10AM and runs through 7PM. There will be free mini-seminars by your favorite manufacturers all day long, OPT will sponsor a FREE pizza lunch in the afternoon, and, of course, the OPT Giant SCAE Giveaway will take place at 6:00PM! This year there will be three grand prizes from FLI, Vixen & Meade worth a combined value of over $10,000, as well as dozens of other great prizes totaling over $29,000 so far!
July 13 - 19, 2009
Mt Bachelor Star Party
Sunrise Lodge, Mt Bachelor Ski Area
Bend, Oregon, USA 		Mount Bachelor Star Party has excellent dark sky viewing and convenient parking. All of the telescope field is paved. There are sites unpaved , level, and grassy for astro-photographers who want footing unaffected by the asphalt. Great new speakers and fun for all ages. Create and fly an air rocket, take a GPS hike and discover geo-caching, Race a remote controlled Mars Rover on rugged terrain! Ride the chair lift. Experience dark skies rivaling anywhere in the US. A BEGINNER FRIENDLY area where new astronomers can learn with some old hands. Mount Bachelor Star Party is located at over 6000 feet elevation in a clean, DARK environment. Flush toilets, restaurant quality food, and a heated meeting area away from the elements.
July 16 - 19, 2009
Gateway to the Universe Star Party
Restoule Provincial Park
Restoule, Ontario, Canada 		Children's program on Saturday afternoon, Pot Luck supper on Saturday night, Laser-guided sky tours, Newtonian Collimation Clinic, Communal campfire philosophizing & pontificating, Swimming, hiking, boating and, of course, stargazing
July 17 - 19, 2009
RASCalsl Star Party
Victoria Fish and Game Association
Cobble Hill, British Columbia, Canada
July 17 - 18, 2010
CWAS AstroFest
CSIRO Parkes Observatory's Visitors Centre
Parkes, Central West of New South Wale, Australia 		The Central West of New South Wales boasts some of the darkest skies in Australia, and as such is a wonderful place to appreciate the wonders of the night sky. In an effort to foster, encourage and promote astronomy in the region, the Central West Astronomical Society is holding its annual festival of astronomy, or AstroFest, next July. The festival endeavours to bring to the people of the Central West world renowned astronomers, both professional and amateur, so they may share their enthusiasm and love of the heavens. The festival will incorporate a two day conference and a programme of associated events. From 17 to 18 July 2010, a series of lectures by guest speakers will provide fascinating insights into various aspects of modern astronomy.
July 17 - 18, 2009
SJAA Yosemite Public Star Party
Glacier Point
Yosemite National Park, CA, USA
July 18, 2009
SCAE (Southern California Astronomy Expo) - Astronomy Faire
Oceanside Photo and Telescope
Oceanside, CA, USA 		Join hundreds of fellow astronomy enthusiasts at the 5th Annual SCAE Astronomy Faire on Saturday, July 18th! Dozens of telescope, CCD, and other astronomy product manufacturers will be on hand to show off their latest and greatest gear, and astronomy-related clubs and groups will be there will lots of information for you! The SCAE 2009 Astronomy Faire kicks off at 10AM and runs through 6PM. There will be free mini-seminars by your favorite manufacturers all day long and a giant OPT SCAE Giveaway! Last year we gave out over $50,000 in prizes at the giveaway! Both the giveaway tickets and entrance into SCAE is free. Check the SCAE website for further updates and information! Hope to see you there!
July 18, 2009
Dark Sky Gaze
Lake Hudson State Park
Clayton, MI, USA 		Dark Sky Preserve - Daily or Annual State Park entry fee needed to enter. Summer site is the picic area - Winter site is the beach. It is a public park and may have an occasional headlight problem.
July 19 - 25, 2009
Nebraska Star Party
Merritt Reservoir Cherry County
Valentine, Nebraska, USA 		One of the darkest sky sites in the Mid-West. Star Party for families. It is also very friendly toward those who are beginning in the hobby of amateur astronomy.
July 21 - 26, 2009
EPOCH 2009
Astro Acres
Beaver City, Indiana, USA 		Conveniently located halfway between Indianapolis and Chicago, Astro Acres is one of the darkest sites left in Indiana or Illinois. This site is privately owned and has been developed specifically for supporting star parties and year round hosting of observatories. For more info call toll free 877-883-8883.
July 23 - 26, 2009
Wisconsin Observers Weekend
Hartman Creek State Park
Waupaca, WI, USA 		Enjoy a laid-back weekend of observing at this regional event held under the dark skies of central Wisconsin. Sponsor: NEWSTAR (NorthEast Wisconsin STARgazers) Information: bpeter76@yahoo.com Web: WWW.new-star.org
July 24 - 25, 2009
SFAA Yosemite Star Party at Glacier Point
Yosemite National Park
El Portal, California, USA
AUGUST
August 5 - 8, 2010
Stellafane
Breezy Hill
Springfield, Vermont, USA 		Check our web site beginning in mid-May for full details. We are now open on Thursday for 3 nights of observing. 2010 is the 75th Stellafane Convention!
August 5 - 8, 2010
Indiana Family Star Party
Camp Cullom (85 acres)
Frankfort, Indiana, USA 		Indiana's largest star party.(www.indianastars.us) This family-friendly event attracts Astronomers throughout midwest. Planning team tries to make sure the event is fun and rewarding to the experienced and want-to-be astronomer. Prairie Grass Observatory (PGO)is a 6 building facility with 28" Go-to, 16" LX200, 16" Newtonian, 7" refractor(in 13ft dome), 100 mm Binoculars, air-conditioned lecture hall. On-sight food available. Free on-field Wi-Fi. PGO is surrounded a beautiful stand of Blue Stem Tall Prairie Grass. Speakers, Free Popcorn, Free Coffee and Hot Chocolate, Free Donuts, camping, Hayrides, venders, and ultralight aircraft flyover. Registration info: www.indianastars.us or call Russ Kaspar:765-659-3338.
August 6 - 9, 2010
Manitoulin Star Party
Gordon's Park Dark Sky Preserve
Manitoulin Island, Ontario, Canada 		Observe with telescopes & binoculars from the darkest skies in Ontario. 360 degree viewing, no light pollution and extremely dark skies with a 7.5 magnitude. Camping, Public Observing Sessions, Laser Guided Sky Tours, Information Sharing Session, Wine & Cheese Welcome Reception, Guest Speakers, Q & A Forum, Swap Meet, Show & Tell, guided educational nature hikes, mini putt challenge, horseshoe tournament & social BBQ Turkey Pot Luck Supper. www.gordonspark.com or 705-859-2470
August 7 - 15, 2010
Mt. Kobau Star Party
Mt. Kobau
Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
August 7 - 9, 2009
AlCon Expo
Hofstra University
Long Island, NY, US 		Visit website for more information
August 7 - 8, 2009
Astronomical League Convention
Hofstra University
Hempstead, NY, 		Annual Convention of the Astronomical League www.astroleague.org
August 8 - 13, 2010
Nebraska Star Party
Merritt Reservoir
Valentine, Nebraska, USA
August 11 - 15, 2010
Oregon Star Party
Ochoco National Forest
Prineville, Oregon, USA 		The site is located on primitive and undeveloped Forest Service land, approximately one hour’s traveling time east of Prineville, Oregon, which is the nearest location for medical facilities, supplies, and gas.
August 12 - 15, 2010
Table Mountain Star Party
Table Mountain, Lion Rock
Ellensburg, WA, USA 		The annual TMSP will be held on Table Mountain, about 20 miles northwest of Ellensburg. Four days and three nights of great observing, as well as informal talks, workshops, seminars, commercial vendors, door prizes, a student-astronomer program, a telescope-makers contest, and a swap meet. Leisure activities include hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor sports. A short hike up to Lion Rock from the camp offers views of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, and the Cascade Mountain Range.
August 12 - 15, 2010
Starfest
The River Place Park
Hanover, Ontario, Canada 		With 13 billion years and counting since the beginning of, well, everything, we’ve only just begun to understand how colossal and amazing a place the universe truly is! And even with all the big questions and mysteries that arise from the modern science of astronomy, it doesn’t make it any less FUN! In this ever-changing hobby, hobbyists and professionals alike are enthralled by the beauty, majesty and immensity of what we see and are mystified by the many things we have yet to learn. The universe truly is the biggest mystery of all. So join us as we celebrate 2009 in the International Year of Astronomy and share in the furthest horizons and the latest innovations of the profession and hobby of astronomy.
August 13 - 15, 2010
Northwoods Starfest
Beaver Creek Reserve- Hobbs Observatory
Eau Claire, Wisconsin, USA 		The Chippewa Valley Astronomical Society will hold the 22nd annual Northwoods Starfest on August 13-15, 2010 at Hobbs Observatory near Fall Creek, Wisconsin. The registration fee covers camping or cabin for two nights, and three meals plus midnight snacks - see the event website for details. There will be paper sessions, swap meet, dealers, door prizes, and star party. It’s an enjoyable weekend of dark-sky viewing and sharing ideas with other astronomy enthusiasts!
August 14 - 23, 2009
Queensland Astrofest
Camp Duckland
Linville, Queensland, Australia 		The Queensland Astrofest is the major star party in Queensland since 1993, open to all amateur astronomers.
August 15, 2009
(over) SCDVA Integratron (pics available)
Thanks, AmSky!
August 18 - 23, 2009
Astroblast
Two Mile Run County Park
Franklin, Pennsylvania, USA
August 20 - 21, 2010
Connecticut River Valley Astronomers Conjunction
Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center
Northfield, Massachusetts, USA 		Join fellow stargazers from the across Northeast for a weekend among the stars during the 26th annual Connecticut River Valley Astronomers' Conjunction. Events include an exciting variety of guest speakers, solar and dark-sky nighttime observing, a swap table, an outdoor barbecue dinner, and camping at Barton Cove on the Connecticut River, home of nesting bald eagles. Check out our web site for the latest information as well as pictures of previous Conjunctions.
August 20 - 23, 2009
Iowa Star Party
Whiterock Resort
Coon Rapids, Iowa, USA
August 20 - 22, 2009
Weekend Under the Stars
Foxpark, Wyoming, USA 		The 19th Annual Weekend under the stars will be held at Foxpark, Wyoming. Sponsored by the Cheyenne Astronomical Society and Laramie Astronomical Society and Space Observers. For more information visit website: http://home.bresnan.net/~curranm/ email, casmail@bresnan.net, or contact Martin Curran, 3539 Luther Place, Cheyenne, WY 82001, (307) 635-5944.
August 20 - 23, 2009
Julian Starfest II
Menghini Winery
Julian, CA, USA 		The inaugural Julian Starfest was a complete success! Not only did we have good skies and naked eye seeing down to 6th magnitude, but everyone, participants and vendors alike, had a wonderful time. Flushed with the feeling of success, the Starfest Committee is going full-steam towards next year's event, scheduled for the dark of moon on the 20th, 21st, 22nd and 23rd of August, 2009. That's right, one extra night this year. We've also added on-line booking through PayPal, one extra night of viewing, kid activities, plus much, much more. Please review our updated web page for all the facts about next years event.
August 20 - 21, 2010
Connecticut River Valley Astronomers Conjunction
Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center
Northfield, Massachusetts, USA 		Join fellow stargazers from across the Northeast for a weekend among the stars during the 28th annual Connecticut River Valley Astronomers' Conjunction. Events include an exciting variety of guest speakers, solar and dark-sky nighttime observing, a swap table, an outdoor barbecue dinner, and camping at Barton Cove on the Connecticut River, home of nesting bald eagles. Check out our web site for the latest information as well as pictures of previous Conjunctions.
August 20 - 23, 2009
Earth Wind and Sky Star Party
Heavens Gate Farm
Barry, Illionois, USA 		We invite you to come enjoy a weekend under the Stars at the Second Annual Earth Wind and Sky Star Party. Explore the Universe on a 20 acre field under visual limiting Mag 6 skies. Guest Speakers, Raffle Drawing. Campers and Rv's along with pets are welcome. Visit the Birth Place of Mark Twain, Shopping nearby, Come work on an Astronomical Society Certificate, meet new friends, or get re-aquiainted with old friends, Pre-Registration ends July 15th walk ups will be higher. Catering is available. We are hard to find but worth the trip.
August 21 - 23, 2009
Nova East
Smileys Provincial Park
Newport, Hants County, Nova Scotia 		Welcome to the home page of Nova East 2009, the 23rd anniversary of Atlantic Canada's regional star party. Nova East was originally established as the camping and observing weekend for the Halifax Centre, and has grown to include participants from many other astronomy clubs in the Atlantic region, and a number of attendees from the northeastern United States as well.
August 21 - 23, 2009
Idaho Star Party
Bruneau Dunes State Park
Bruneau, Idaho, USA
August 21 - 23, 2009
MegaMeet
Blue Mountain
Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA 		MegaMeet is the main observing event of the Lehigh Valley Amateur Astronomical Society. It’s a bare-bones star party, without vendors, speakers, or registration fees. MegaMeet is held at the 1600 foot summit of Pulpit Rock, LVAAS' dark skies location on Blue Mountain, approximately 25 miles west of Allentown, PA and just north of Hamburg, Pennsylvania.
August 21 - 23, 2009
Arunah Hill Days
Arunah Hill Natural Science Center
Cummington, Massachusetts, USA 		Dark Sky observing at 2004 ft. The event is free. Tent talks, Camping, solar oberserving, day hiking on our many trails and model rocket building and launching for kids of all ages. No pets.
August 21 - 22, 2009
North Dakota Badlands Star Party
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Watford City, North Dakota, USA
August 22, 2009
Dark Sky Gaze
Lake Hudson State Park
Clayton, MI, USA 		Dark Sky Preserve - Daily or Annual State Park entry fee needed to enter. Summer site is the picic area - Winter site is the beach. It is a public park and may have an occasional headlight problem.
SEPTEMBER
September 4 - 11, 2010
Merritt Star Quest
Loon Lake Road
Merritt, BC, Canada 		8 day event in a pristine area of the Nicola Valley near Merritt BC. Fantastic clear skies. Faint shadows cast by milkyway visible on white objects. Clouds are black holes in the sky. No light domes. The milky way has faint extentions making it 50 degrees thick. Limiting magntiude 7.1 to 7.5.
September 7 - 10, 2010
Great Lakes Star Gaze
River Valley RV Park
Gladwin, Michigan, USA 		Hosted by Sunset Astronomical Society, www.sunsetastronomicalsociety.com/
September 8 - 12, 2010
Huronia Star Party
Highlands Nordic Centre
Duntroon, Ontario,
September 9 - 12, 2010
Internationales Heide-Teleskoptreffen Reinsehlen
Camp Reinsehlen Hotel
Schneverdingen, Germany 		10 Jahre IHT-Reinsehlen! :-)
September 10 - 12, 2010
Idaho Star Party (tm)
Bruneau Dunes State Park Eagle Cove Campground
Mountain Home Idaho, Idaho, USA 		Come join us for the Idaho Star Party at Bruneau Dunes State Park and Observatory. Guest Speaker, Attilla Danko, of the Clear Sky Charts fame, is scheduled to give presentations Friday and Saturday evenings and we have our world famous Star-B-Que dinner on Saturday night. Door prizes. Kid programs. Hike the Natural Sand Dunes. Observatory has 25" Obsession Scope plus most attendees have their own scopes. South of Mountain Home Idaho, Bruneau Dunes State Park is about 60 miles southeast of Boise airport with nice dark skies. Sites include water, electric, nice bath house with flush toilets and showers. http://www.boiseastro.org/ for more details. Register early to ensure your t-shirt/hat order and Star-B-Que dinner availabilty.
September 10 - 11, 2010
Craters of the Moon Star Party
Craters of the Moon National Monument
Arco, Idaho, USA
September 11 - 12, 2010
Alberta Star Party
Starland Recreation Area Campground
Drumheller, Alberta, Canada 		The Alberta Star Party is open to everyone - not just RASC members. We invite you and your family to attend the 23rd Annual Alberta Star Party. The star party is hosted by the Calgary Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada and we feel that you will be impressed by the dark and transparent skies.
September 11 - 12, 2009
White Sands Star Party
White Sands area
Alamogordo, New Mexico, USA 		A beautiful dark sky, glistening White Sand dunes and visits to two outstanding national observatories await you at the Ninth Annual White Sands Star Party.
September 11 - 12, 2010
The Autumn Equinox Sky Camp
Kelling Heath
Norfolk, England, United Kingdom 		The Equinox Sky Camp is the largest star party in the UK, with hundreds of amateur astronomers meeting up at Kelling Heath, Norfolk, for a weekend of observing and events. The main day of the event has traditionally been the Saturday, with trade stands, secondhand 'astroboot' stalls and talks, but since 2005 the events have extended into the Sunday with talks and a workshop of particular interest to active observers. These will take place after midday to allow for those who are observing until the small hours!
September 11, 2010
ScopeOut Astronomy Fair 2010
Cincinnati Observatory Center
Cincinnati, Ohio, USA 		Astronomy and education fair for amateur & professional astronomers, kids of all ages, families, and teachers; anyone interested in the Universe. The Cincinnati Observatory is a fully restored 19th century observatory with two functional telescopes. The 16” Alvan Clark saw first light in 1904, our 11” Merz and Mahler was the world’s 2nd largest telescope when installed in 1842. Over 20,000 students and their families peer into the heaven’s each year through the scopes. Join us for presentations, tour the “Birthplace of American Astronomy”, keynote dinner speaker, stargazing and more.
September 17 - 20, 2009
No-Frills Star Party XIV
Tuckahoe State Park
Queen Anne, Maryland, USA 		Mid-Alantic Star Party Hosted by the Delmarva Stargazers Astronomy Club. This is year 14 for this event.
September 17 - 20, 2009
Blackwater Falls Astronomy Weekend
Blackwater Falls State Park
Davis, West Virginia, USA 		To celebrate our 20th year, we've added a day! We'll start on Thursday 9/17. Two days of speakers and astronomy workshops, lectures, doorprizes, very dark skies (elevation over 3,000 feet) and accommodations include: Lodge with a restaurant, Cabins and a Campground. If the weather turn bad, all activities (except observing, of course) can be held indoors. NO admission charge. For more info, go to our website www.kvas.org
September 18 - 20, 2009
Black Forest Star Party
Cherry Springs State Park
Potter County, Pennsylvania, USA
September 18 - 22, 2009
Almost Heaven Star Party
The Mountain Institute
Spruce Knob, West Virginia, USA 		The 2009 Almost Heaven Star party will be held at The Mountain Institute, near beautiful Spruce Knob, West Virginia. Held at one of the darkest site in the East, AHSP has amenities you won't find at any other star party. Plus you'll enjoy daytime programs for the whole family!
September 18 - 20, 2009
Hidden Hollow Star Party
Hidden Hollow
Mansfield, Ohio, United States 		Join us for a weeknd of stellar guest speakers, workshops, contests and dark skies! Camping, bunkhouses, restrooms, showers, food vendors and fantastic prizes... No matter what the weather, there's always something to do! The views through the 31" Observatory scope are out of this world!
September 18 - 20, 2009
EQUINOX 2009
AstroAcres
Beaver City, Indiana, USA 		Following in the tradition of excellence started by the EPOCH 2007 and EPOCH 2008 Star Parties at AstroAcres, EQUINOX 2009 is a star party at the best time of the year for observing in the Midwest at the best location for this type of event in the Midwest. More information can be found at www.astroacres.com and at www.starparty.info
September 18 - 20, 2010
Hidden Hollow Star Party
Warren Rupp Observatory
Mansfield, OH, USA 		For long time star party fans, you know the legend of Hidden Hollow as one of the friendliest and most comfortable star parties around. We're nestled deep in the woods of Hidden Hollow resident camp in northeast Ohio near the town of Mansfield. Each year we provide some of the finest guest speakers available and they join in the fun! You'll see our speakers and all of our great and unusual activities for this year listed on the navigation platform to the left. Tired of the same old type of Star Party? You won't be bored this year, I promise. You're going to really enjoy the things we have to offer!
September 18 - 19, 2009
LVAS 23d Annual Cathedral Gorge Star Party and Campout
Cathedral Gorge State Park
Panaca, NV, USA 		Two nights under the dark skies of East Central Nevada. LVAS has reserved two group campsites for tent campers - RV sites available on first come/first served basis (22 sites). Join us for a Pot Luck lunch and door prizes on Saturday. Astronomers entertain visitors until approximately 11pm - remainder of night is personal observing under mag 6 skies. See www.lvastronomy.org Upcoming Event Info for more information.
September 19, 2009
Dark Sky Gaze
Lake Hudson State Park
Clayton, Michigan, USA 		Dark Sky Preserve - Daily or Annual State Park entry fee needed to enter. Summer site is the picic area - Winter site is the beach. It is a public park and may have an occasional headlight problem.
September 25 - 26, 2009
Astrofest
Vana's
Kankakee, Illinois, USA 		Lectures, presentations, solar observation, workshops during the day; stargazing at night including access to our observatory. Also, door prizes, swap/flea market, astrophotography contest
September 25 - 26, 2009
Astronomy at the Beach (Kensington Star Party)
Kensington Metropark
Brighton, Michigan, USA
September 30 - October 3, 2010
Prairie Skies Star Party
Camp Shaw
Manteno, IL, USA 		Prairie Skies Star Party 2010 will be held at beautiful Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See 4-H camp, adjacent to Kankakee River State Park, near Bourbonnais Illinois. We place a special emphasis on amateur telescope making, by recognizing outstanding achievement through our ATM Telescope and Accessory Awards. In addition to the usual all night observing; Prairie Skies features an imaging contest, door prizes, a swap market, vendors, catered meals, and a guest speaker or two. Visit the Prairie Dog Stand and enjoy a tasty prairie dog; and don’t miss out on the famous Midnight Chili! Join us for a great time as Prairie Skies Star Party "continues the tradition" at Camp Shaw.
OCTOBER
October 2 - 10, 2010
Okie-Tex Star Party
Camp Billy Joe
Kenton, Oklahoma, USA 		The 27th Annual Okie-Tex Star Party will be held at Camp Billy Joe. Join us for 8 nights of dark sky observing and imaging. You can register at www.okie-tex.com or contact Mike Dennis-405-640-9499
October 2 - 10, 2010
Twin Lakes Star Party
Pennyrile Forest State Park
Dawson Springs, Kentucky, USA 		The 21st Annual Twin Lakes Star Party will be hosted by the West Kentucky Amateur Astronomers and is held each year at Pennyrile Forest State Park near Dawson Springs, Kentucky. This is a prime dark sky location with broad horizons near a pristine Kentucky wilderness area. We invite you to come join us for a week of observing fun. Formal/informal talks, door prizes, camping on the field. Vendors Welcome. M A R K Y O U R C A L E N D A R
October 4 - 10, 2010
Mid-Atlantic Star Party
Robbins, North Carolina, USA 		MASP is located in the "Dark Park" South of Robbins, NC. This is about halfway between Raleigh and Charlotte and halfway between Winston-Salem and Fayetteville. The skies at the site are about as dark as they can get in the Eastern US. The location affords views of many deep-sky objects including the Milky Way, some of the southern sky objects. good planetary views as well as great observing of galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.
October 6 - 10, 2010
Enchanted Skies Star Party
Socorro, New Mexico, USA 		The Enchanted Skies Star Party, held in Socorro, New Mexico, offers a unique Southwestern Astronomy experience. With many exciting features, the Enchanted Skies Star Party includes a unique opportunity for a night of observing at an elevation of 10,600 feet. We continue our decade-long tradition of presenting outstanding lectures by leading professional and amateur astronomers, and we'll gather on Saturday night for an evening of great food, Southwestern entertainment and excellent, dark-sky observing. Socorro's dry, high-desert climate, dark skies, and friendly small-town environment provide an excellent dark sky observing experience.
October 6 - 11, 2010
Kielder Forest Star Camp
Kielder Forest
Northumberland, United Kingdom 		Five nights under the darkest sky in England and chance to observe at the Kielder Observatory with 20" and 14" scopes.
October 8 - 11, 2010
Camp Delany Star party
Sunlakes State Park
Coulee City, Washington, USA 		There are cabins, a meeting area and dining area as well as hot showers. The cost is $60 and includes 8 meals, a place to sleep or park your camper and great dark skies.
October 8 - 10, 2010
Fall Mason Dixon Star Party
Foot Light Ranch
Wellsville, PA, USA 		THIS YEAR WE WILL BE SPONSORING TWO STAR PARTIES. The Summer MDSP will be held Fri, July 9 thru Sun, July 11. This will be the TRADITIONAL MDSP, with guest speakers, vendors, and our popular raffle and of course the pool. For both events, you will have the option of arriving Wednesday at noon for additional nights of observing.Please feel free to go to the photo gallery at the website to see some of the fun had last year. The Fall MDSP will be held Friday, Oct 8 thru Sun, Oct 10. This will be a NO-FRILLS star party. There will be no guest speakers and no raffle. Just a few days of camaraderie with our friends and observing at night. A food vendor will be at both star parties for our dining pleasure. Hope to see you at the star party.
October 9 - 23, 2009
The Great World Wide Star Count
World Wide
 Join us in October for an exciting citizen science campaign: the Great World Wide Star Count. This IYA Cornerstone Project encourages everyone to go outside, look skyward after dark, count the stars they see in certain constellations, and report what they see online. This event is designed to raise awareness about light pollution and the night sky as well as encourage learning in astronomy. Mark your calendars and plan on joining thousands of other students, families, and citizen scientists counting stars this October! The second annual Great World Wide Star Count will be held from October 9 - 23, 2009.
October 11 - 18, 2009
Peach State Star Gaze
Deerlick Astronomy Village
Atlanta, Georgia, USA 		The Atlanta Astronomy Club’s 16th Annual Peach State Star Gaze (PSSG)will be held at Deerlick Astronomy Village in Sharon Georgia, located east of Atlanta and 50+ miles west of Augusta, GA. It has some of the darkest skies in Georgia and away from city lights. DAV has an 11-acre field that has room for RVs, campers and tents. Limited power available. Restrooms and showers available along with port-a-johns along the field. We will have speakers, vendors, swap tables and workshops. Registration is necessary to attend and is now open. Please visit us at AtlantaAstronomy.org/pssg/. You can also email us at pssg@atlantaastronomy.org. Please also visit the Deerlick Astronomy Village’s site at Deerlickgroup.com.
October 16 - 18, 2009
Jersey StarQuest
Hope Conference Center
Hope, NJ, USA 		Canceled due to predicted bad weather
October 16 - 18, 2009
Stella Della Valley StarParty 2009
Camp Onas
Ottsville, Pennsylvania, USA 		Join us in beautiful Bucks County Pennsylvania for a wonderful fall weekend of Stargazing, Guest Speakers, Swap Meet, Pizza Buffet and fellowship with amateur astronomers from all over the tri-state area. Check out our website for details.
October 16 - 17, 2009
Death Valley/Las Vegas Astronomical Society Star Party
Death valley National Park and Furnace Creek Resort
Death Valley, California, USA 		Furnace Creek Resort, Death Valley National Park, and the Las Vegas Astronomical Society will collaborate to present a week of star parties, presentations, solar viewing, and night sky tours. Please feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars. Enjoy crystal clear desert skies at night. During the day, enjoy horseback riding, golfing, hiking, touring, tennis, spa treatments, spring-fed pools, and gourmet meals at the Furnace Creek Inn and Ranch Resort.
October 16 - 17, 2009
Snake Valley Astr Camp
SV Astro Club site
Ballarat, Victoria, Australia 		Fantastic dark sky event. The Coal Sack, LMC & SMC can all be seen with naked eye.
October 16 - 20, 2009
Snake Valley Astro Camp
Snake Valley
Ballarat, Victoria, Australia 		A great event. Fantastic dark skys. Great food, great mates......
October 17, 2009
NOVAC Star Gaze
C.M. Crockett Park
Fauquier County, Virginia, USA 		The largest public star gaze in the Washington DC area. Learn about astronomy while enjoying the night sky with hundreds of telescopes, binoculars and homemade projects. Many experienced astronomers will be on hand to answer questions and share their knowledge. You do not need to be a member of the club or own any astronomical equipment to attend. All you need is an interest in the wonders of the cosmos. Easy access, lots of equipment and a dark sky make for a good night under the stars. Please join us!
October 17, 2009
Dark Sky Gaze
Lake Hudson State Park
Clayton, Michigan, USA 		Dark Sky Preserve - Daily or Annual State Park entry fee needed to enter. Summer site is the picic area - Winter site is the beach. It is a public park and may have an occasional headlight problem.
October 23 - 29, 2009
The Great World Wide Star Count
Your backyard or observing site
 This Windows to the Universe program is an international citizen-science event that encourages everyone, astronomers and non-astronomers alike, to measure their local light pollution and report their observations online. The Great World Wide Star Count, part of the Dark Skies Awareness cornerstone project for the upcoming International Year of Astronomy, is designed to raise awareness about light pollution as well as encourage learning in astronomy. No prior experience is necessary--all information needed to participate is on the Star Count Web site, along with a downloadable activity guide available in eight languages. All observations will be available online via Google Earth and as downloadable datasets.
October 24, 2009
Astronomy Day
World Wide
 Contact the Astronomy Day Headquarters or astronomy club or planetarium nearest you for more information for this fall Astronomy Day event. Be sure to put "Astronomy Day" in subject line.
October 24, 2009
Astronomy Day
University of Texas Arlington Planetarium
Arlington, TX, USA 		The Texas Astronomical Society and the UTA Planetarium will hold their annual Astronomy Day from 2pm-10pm. The event is free and open to the public. See the TAS Calendar for details. http://calendar.yahoo.com/joelalumia@sbcglobal.net
NOVEMBER
November 1 - 7, 2010
Eldorado Star Party
X-Bar Ranc
Eldorado, Texas, USA 		Sponsored by the Austin Astronomical Society with the support of the Texas Star Party, and volunteers from area clubs including San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston, this event promises to bring dark skies closer to the amateur astronomer. The central location (46 miles west of Fort McKavett) is within easy driving distance of many Texas cities (Map), and enjoys the dry climate of west Texas. The site is 8 miles north of Interstate-10 (Click here for Area Map), and has a convenient all-weather road and parking area at the observing fields. Camping and RVs available on-site. Hot-water showers and toilet facilities are conveniently located near the camping areas. Specially-priced motel rooms are available in nearby Sonora and Ozona. X-Bar also has a few cabins located a short walk away. Lunch and dinner will be catered at X-Bar's nearby Live Oak Lodge.
November 1 - 7, 2010
Eldorado Star Party
X-Bar Ranch
Sonora, Texas, USA 		Annual gathering of 120+ amateur astronomers for observing under darks skies. Convenient light-protected parking, camping, RVs, some cabins.
November 3 - 7, 2010
Deep South Regional Star Gaze
Feliciana Retreat Center
Norwood, Louisiana, USA 		28th Annual DSRSG, oldest continuous star party in the southeastern United States. It's our 2nd year at our new and darker site. Routinely attracts 130+ attendees. RVs and campers welcome. (no electrical hookups or sewage) welcome. Range of accomodations including motel type rooms, bunk house with heat and a/c and tent camping permitted too. Large door prize drawing and guest speakers. 6.4 to 6.5 magnitude skies on good nights.
November 4 - 7, 2010
Nightfall
Palm Canyon Resort
Borrego Springs, California, USA
November 5 - 7, 2010
All Arizona Star Party
Farnsworth Ranch
Arizona City, Arizona, USA 		The annual star party sponsored by East Valley Astronomy Club for all amateur astronomers who are interested in observing at a dark sky site! Attend Friday night, Saturday night, or both! Any amateur astronomer is welcome to attend.
November 9 - 15, 2009
CSPG Fall Star Party
Chiefland, Florida, USA 		Chiefland is one of the best dark sky locations in the eastern US. The Chiefland Astronomy Village is the larger community that the CSPG Observing Field is located and was founded in 1985 by Billy and Alice Dodd.
November 13 - 16, 2009
VicSouth Desert Spring Star Party
VicSouth Desert Spring Star Party
Nhil, Australia 		The VicSouth Desert Spring Star Party is an annual weekend of astronomy held in addition to the ASSA Astro Camps in western Victoria (Australia) during the mild weather of spring - when the skies in the region are generally clear at night. VicSouth is jointly hosted by the Astronomical Society of Victoria and the Astronomical Society of South Australia, and offers a great weekend of social and astronomical activity as well as some nice observing targets.
November 14, 2009
3rd Annual Night Under the Stars at Alamo Lake State Park
Alamo Lake State Park - 38 miles North of Wenden
Wenden, Arizona, USA 		Night under the Stars will have a Star Fair with family activities, Educators Workshop with astronomy presentations and a Star Party beginning at 7 p.m., MST. The Star Fair will feature educational booths and activities for children and teachers from NASA Educator Resource Center at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Arizona State Parks. For more information go to www.azstateparks.com and look for the Alamo Lake State Park link. Stargazers will enjoy an unbelievable view of the night sky since the nearest town lights are 38 miles away. To get to the park: From the city of Wenden, go north 38 miles on Alamo Dam Road to reach the Alamo Lake State Park.
November 14, 2009
Dark Sky Gaze
Lake Hudson State Park
Clayton, MI, USA 		Dark Sky Preserve - Daily or Annual State Park entry fee needed to enter. Summer site is the picic area - Winter site is the beach. It is a public park and may have an occasional headlight problem.
DECEMBER
December 19, 2009
Dark Sky Gaze
Lake Hudson State Park
Clayton, MI, USA 		Dark Sky Preserve - Daily or Annual State Park entry fee needed to enter. Summer site is the picic area - Winter site is the beach. It is a public park and may have an occasional headlight problem.
December 20, 2009
Sun-Day on the Soltice
Kitt Peak National Observatory (56 miles southwest of Tucson)
Tucson, Arizona, United States 		learn what the Sun is, how it works, and how to safely observe it in action. Tours of the world’s largest solar telescope and direct observation of the Sun itself will highlight the program. Hands-on activities will also be featured.

 

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