Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Stargazing Event with the International Dark Sky Discovery Center

Join Ranger Olivia and the International Dark Sky Discovery Center for a fun night of stargazing in observation of National Public Lands Day. National Public Lands Day is an annual event that encourages the public to connect with the public lands around them. This can include joining volunteer conservation projects or just simply getting outdoors, exploring nature safely and responsibly and supporting efforts to learn about and protect these special places. To honor this day, Ranger Olivia will be joined by the International Dark Sky Discovery Center to host a special stargazing event with telescope viewings and laser pointer constellation tours. At this event, there will be the opportunity to see stars and planets up close, our unique dark skies and learn how we can help protect them. This event will give you, your friends, and family the chance to learn about not only the environment around you but also the public lands around you and how they can benefit your mental and physical wellbeing! Telescopes and expertise provided by volunteers from the International Dark Sky Discovery Center.   What to Expect Park and Dark Sky staff will be around to answer any and all questions Telescope viewings will run throughout the entire event Laser pointer tours of the constellations will be split into 2 sessions: 8:00pm and 8:30pm Coloring pages and Junior Ranger Booklets will be offered for children Bathrooms and water fountains are available, but please BRING WATER with you   PLEASE NOTE: Outdoor summer programs may be canceled on short notice due to severe weather, including extreme heat events. The Maricopa County Parks website (www.maricopa.gov/parks) is the most accurate resource for verifying the program’s current status. Please check the program listing online before coming to the park.   MEETING LOCATION: Trailhead Staging Area   Map of Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nYKr4mfXH4udkF5k6   No Registration Required!