Highland Star Party This Weekend

The first 2024 Highland County Star Party will take place on Friday, September 27^th.   The “rain date” is Saturday, September 28^th. The public is invited, at no charge, to celebrate Highland County’s unique dark sky resource.  The event will be held at the Skip Jones property at 923 Sounding Knob Road, Monterey, VA, atop Jack Mountain, east of Monterey.  From US 250, turn south onto Sounding Knob Road and drive up the road for approximately a mile and a half.  The address is clearly marked on the left.

A number of knowledgeable amateur astronomers will be on hand with their telescopes to give attendees a chance to see celestial objects visible in our dark skies.  You can bring your own telescopes and binoculars as well.  Dress warmly, wear sturdy shoes, and bring a lawn chair.  If you have a red flashlight, bring it; white flashlights are discouraged because they ruin night vision.  Red glow sticks will be provided.  Plan to arrive around sundown at 7:26 P.M. so you can get oriented to the layout before darkness.  Carpooling is suggested if possible, as parking at the site is limited.  As you enter the driveway, park to the left; the viewing field will be to the right.  If the weather is not cooperative, a cancellation will be announced on the event day by 4:00 P.M. on Allegheny Mountain Radio, the Highland County Stargazer Facebook page, the Highland County Chamber of Commerce website, and the Recorder Facebook page.

Another star party is planned for October 25^th, with the 26^th as a backup date.  For more information, Michael Bedwell at 468-2316 or mbedwell6@gmail.com.