Description

A number of knowledgeable amateurs will again have their large telescopes available to share views of the heavens – Jupiter and Saturn are visible now, and many other galaxies, nebula, star clusters, and constellations will be visible throughout the night on Friday, October 1, 2021.  The Milky Way should be particularly brilliant.

This event is free and open to the public.  

Plan to arrive before sunset, which occurs at 6:39, to Skip Jones’ “Lone Pine Cabin” at 923 Sounding Knob Road (38.401066 – 79.558342) to acquaint yourself with the layout before total darkness.  Directional signs will point the way from US 250 east of Monterey, to south on Sounding Knob Road. The site is about one mile up Sounding Knob Road on the left.  Be advised that the road is unpaved and steep in places.  Please carpool if you can and park facing west to avoid headlights in the viewing field.  Dress warmly as the temperature will get down to the low 40s, and bring a comfortable lawn chair and any telescopes or binoculars you may have.  Please use red flashlights only to preserve night vision.  A portable outhouse is available.  For the safety of all, unvaccinated individuals should wear masks and practice social distancing.  Hope to see you there!          

Stay tuned to WVLS FM (87.9), The Highland County Star Gazer Facebook page, The Highland County Chamber of Commerce website, and The Recorder Facebook page for the final announcement of the date chosen for best visibility.

You may direct any questions to Michael Bedwell at 468-2316 or mbedwell6@gmail.com.