Explore the stars April 13-18 during International Dark Sky Week

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 8, 2015

Contact: Jacquelyn Baker, 517-284-6094


Explore the stars at Michigan state parks April 13-18 during
International Dark Sky Week

The Department of Natural Resources today announced that many Michigan state parks will celebrate International Dark Sky Week (April 13-18) by staying open late for night sky viewing. A total of 29 state parks are participating and will remain open late for this national event, providing stellar night sky viewing opportunities around the state. Some parks also will host astronomy-themed events that focus on the night sky.

Below are some of the special programs planned during International Dark Sky Week:

Friday, April 17, 6 and 8:30 p.m., Rockport State Recreation Area (Alpena County)

The Friends of Rockport and Besser Natural Areas will host an astronomy event at the Besser Museum Planetarium in Alpena at 6 p.m. John Heath, planetarium director, will introduce the current night sky and identify the constellations. At 8:30 p.m., weather permitting, meet at Rockport Harbor to learn about constellations and planets currently visible in the night sky. Telescopes will be available for viewing. For details, contact the Besser Museum at 989-356-2202 or Rockport managing unit P.H. Hoeft State Park at 989-734-2543.

Saturday, April 18, 9 p.m., Lake Hudson Recreation Area (Lenawee County)

Join DNR staff at the only designated Dark Sky Preserve in southern Michigan for a night of stargazing and stories. For details, contact the park at 517-445-2265.

Saturday, April 18, 2 and 7 p.m., Ludington State Park (Mason County)

Meet at the warming shelter at 2 p.m. to view sun spots through special telescopes, and to create “sun art.” At 7 p.m., participants will see the night sky through a guided tour. Bring blankets, coats and lawn chairs and get comfortable while gazing at the stars and learning about the night sky. For details, call 231-843-2423. 

For an online listing of the state parks and recreation areas open for night sky viewing during International Dark Sky Week, visit www.michigan.gov/stateparks. Please call the park directly for event details.

Inside Michigan’s Great Outdoors subscribers are always the first to know about reservation opportunities, state park events and other outdoor happenings. Visit www.michigan.gov/dnr to subscribe now.

There is no charge to attend International Dark Sky Week events, but a Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry at Michigan state parks.

A Recreation Passport grants vehicle access to any Michigan state park, boat launch, state forest campground or nonmotorized state trailhead parking. Residents can purchase the Passport for just $11 ($5 for motorcycles) at the time of Michigan license plate renewal through Secretary of State. Forgot to check “YES” during renewal? Residents and nonresidents can purchase a Recreation Passport window sticker during regular business hours at state parks. Learn more about how the Recreation Passport supports state parks and local outdoor recreation opportunities at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport.