The Indiana Family Star Party and Prairie Grass Observatory Open House welcomes amateur astronomers of all ages to enjoy the dark skies at Prairie Grass Observatory. It is sponsored by Camp Cullom, the Wabash Valley Astronomical Society, the Indiana Astronomical Society, the Muncie Astronomy Club and supported by the Astronomical League.
Member activities include a Sky Trekker Observers program for kids and novice adults, speakers who present on various astronomical topics, a raffle, solar observing, nighttime observing, camping, and a nature walk. Campground amenities include on-site showers and restrooms, and an air-conditioned Nature Center.
Here is more information:
http://www.indianastars.us/
http://www.indianastars.us/starparty/map.html
https://www.campcullom.org/
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This Meetup event has no structured agenda. Everyone is welcome so RSVP and we’ll meet someplace on the grounds.
My plans are to arrive around 4-5pm then head straight to the solar telescope in hope of seeing solar flares and sunspots before the sun starts to set. The last time I did this I also saw the rare sight of a man-made satellite cross in front of the sun while I was observing. If a speaker is scheduled, I’ll go to the nature center and listen to a talk. Sometime before sunset I’ll find a table to sit down and eat, then take a hike on the easy trails in the woods and prairie until dusk.
The real activity starts after sunset around 9:40pm at civil twilight. The Prairie Grass Observatory has several large telescopes you can look through. Also, amateur astronomers from all over the Midwest have their own telescopes set up and will, upon request, allow you to look at what they have focused on. The telescopes are various sizes with some the length of a car. Many are focused on different objects in the sky. The astronomers are eager to share their hobby with guests.
Parking: Do not park at the main entrance even if the gate is open. Instead, go to the east entrance where you will pay admission and be directed where to park.
Bring: Telescope or binoculars, camera/tripod, flashlight w/red lens cover, insect repellent, reclining lawn chair, cooler, water/drinks, snacks/food.
Note… white light flashlights are not permitted near the viewing area as they will ruin other people’s night vision. Let me know and I can provide red plastic film to cover your flashlight lens.
This is a very dark campground and rural county providing for some of the best stargazing sky in Indiana. Plan on staying after midnight when you’ll have the opportunity to see the Milky Way light up the sky. Shooting stars are not unusual. Right now, the forecast is for mostly clear sky so we should be able to see Mars, Jupiter and its moons, and the rings of Saturn.
Also, SkyView is a free and really good stargazing app to have on your phone for this event.
iPhone https://apps.apple.com/us/app/skyview-lite/id413936865
Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.t11.skyviewfree&hl=en_US
