Hayes— Friends of Machicomoco State Park is once again partnering with the NASA Skywatchers to put on an Astronomy in the Park event at Machicomoco State Park. The event will be held on Saturday, April 25, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. The group, based out of NASA Langley, will be on hand to discuss and explore the night sky with park visitors. “This is an incredible opportunity for families to learn about astronomy from experienced amateur astronomers”, said Dave Harlan with the Friends Group.
Youth, aged 8-16, attending the event will be eligible to enter a contest to win a telescope. Entry forms requiring parental permission will be available at the event. Entrants should be prepared to explain why they want a telescope on the entry form.
The event will be held at the parks Interpretive Area which has ample parking and modern restrooms. The sky viewing area is a short walk down a trail. Visitors may want to bring a camp chair to relax while they enjoy the sky. The trail and viewing area will be dimly lit with red lights to help preserve night vision. Visitors flashlights will be equipped with red filters by the group.
The $5 per vehicle park entry fee can be paid at the self-pay station located at the entrance of the park. The event is weather dependent.