Night Skies at Natchez Trace
For the third year, we team up with naturalists and rangers at Natchez Trace State Park for a weekend of amateur astronomy! Throughout the weekend, and if the weather cooperates, we’ll have telescopes out for demonstration and free public viewing. Beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights, we will set up telescopes in the Pin Oak R.V. Campground. Viewing is open to the public until ten each evening, as we transition the site to an observation area for our amateur astronomers. Saturday night will include a special treat: the peak of the annual Lyrids meteor shower occurs that evening! When we’re not browsing with telescopes, a resting gaze on a blanket could reveal up to 60 streaks per hour! There is no charge for this public viewing, though lodging is not provided. You can use the link below to make reservations at Pin Oak Lodge or the campsite, or you may drive to the Park both nights. If you have a pair of binoculars or a telescope, you are strongly encouraged to bring them! If the weather forecast calls for clouds or rain either night, that event will be canceled. Please check the forecast before attending. For directions to the park, including maps to find the Pin Oak Campground, please use the following link to the NTSP website: http://www.tn.gov/environment/parks/NatchezTrace/ If you have any questions about the event, send an email to (questions@forkeddeerastronomy.com) Clear skies!
