See stars at Tallgrass
Friday, October 9, 2009
Those interested in the night sky will have the opportunity to view it in the prairie on Saturday.
An event being held at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, the Second Annual Night Sky Program at the Preserve, will give skygazers the opportunity to gaze at the stars in the preserve’s back country area.
The event will be from 7 to 10 p.m. at the preserve, two miles north of Strong City on Kansas Highway 177. Visitors will be transported by bus to the prairie overlook area roughly three miles from the ranch headquarters area with buses leaving for the observation area at 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. from the ranch parking lot. No reservations are required, and the activity is free.
Visitors should wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes and bring a blanket or lawn chair to the event. Binoculars, a small flashlight and bug spray also are recommended. The preserve will provide red film to cover flashlight beams to maintain the night vision at the observation site. Large telescopes will be available to view the stars and planets with presentations given by local astronomy experts.
Rain and cloudy conditions will cancel the outdoor night sky viewing program. There will be no rescheduled date. If the program is canceled because of clouds, there will be a short PowerPoint presentation in the barn. If severe weather and rain is in the area, all events will be canceled.
In case of inclement weather, the final decision to cancel the event will be made at 4 p.m. Saturday. Call (620) 273-8494 to check the status.
View the stars
When
7 to 10 p.m. Saturday
Where
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, two miles north of Strong City on Kansas Highway 177
Cost
Free
For more information
(620) 273-8494