Description

Plan to attend the 2023 Highland County Star Party on Saturday, September 16^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 24465 atop Jack Mountain, east of Monterey.  From US 250, turn south onto Sounding Knob Road and drive up the fairly steep gravel road for approximately a mile and a half.  The address is clearly marked on the left.   High clearance vehicles are recommended.

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.  Bring your own telescopes and binoculars too.  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.  Carpool if you can 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 WVLS FM (87.9), 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 14.  You may direct any questions to Michael Bedwell at 468-2316 or mbedwell6@gmail.com.  Clear Skies!