Upcoming Star Party EventsOctober 5, 2013 -
Kartchner Caverns State Park
November 2, 2013 - Alamo Lake State Park
))) & Bill Dellinges))Other partners, clubs, and individuals also assist at various events!
Five Arizona State Parks provide fun, educational Star Night Astronomy events! Our astronomy program has been in operation for 5 years now and continues to grow! At a typical star night event you can hear a lecture (often with guest speakers), and view celestial objects (planets, nebulas, stars) through a variety of telescopes. Some events have information tables and afternoon solar viewings as well, and one event even has an astral photography workshop. These events are supported by Arizona Astronomy Clubs and individuals who invite the public to come see Arizona's amazing night skies. Watch our video which gives a good introduction to Star Night activities. Learn more about what to expect and what to bring on this page.
What to Bring to a Star Party
Water, snacks, red flashlight (which protects everyone's night vision), sweater or jacket, & enthusiasm to enjoy and conserve our beautiful night skies!
Telescopes
If you have a telescopes feel free to bring it. Each event has an organizer you can coordinate with before arriving. If you have never brought your scope to a public event it's a great experience and we can help you!
Rules
Please note that no flash photos are allowed after dark to protect everyone's night vision. In addition when using a telescope we ask that you only lean in with your eyes and do not touch the astronomers' telescopes.
Camping
Star Night events are the perfect event to camp at. You can even make campsite reservations online 24/7.
On March 3, 2011, Alamo Lake State Park (with the Astronomers of Verde Valley) & Kartchner Caverns State Park (with the Huachuca Astronomy Club) were the first state parks in the United States to be granted the "One Star at a Time" award and became a member of the Global Star Park Network. This award acknowledges the public stargazing events held at both parks in an effort to increase awareness of astronomy and preserving dark skies for future generations. The awards were presented by the StarLight Initiative, the One Star at a Time organization and Astronomers Without Borders. The Global Star Park Network aims to protect night environments, educate the public, and improve human habitat.
Catalina State Park: May 4, 2013(part of the 30th Anniversary Celebration Event)
Oracle State Park: April 14, 2013 (New Park to hold a Star Party!)
Catalina SP: March 16, 2013
Kartchner Caverns SP: March 16, 2013
Alamo Lake SP: November 10, 2012 
Lost Dutchman SP: November 17, 2012
Kartchner Caverns SP: Sept. 15, 2012
Lost Dutchman SP: April 7, 2012
Lost Dutchman SP: April 13, 2012
Catalina SP: April 14, 2012
Alamo Lake SP: November 19, 2011
Kartchner Caverns SP: March 26, 2011
Lost Dutchman SP: December 11, 2010
Alamo Lake SP: November 6, 2010
Kartchner Caverns SP: September 11, 2010
Alamo Lake SP: November 14, 2009
Alamo Lake SP: November 22, 2008
Contact: Dr. Bob Casavant, Manager, Science & Research
rcasavant(at)azstateparks.gov or 520-260-8826
Camping Reservations
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