Silver Falls State Park and the Friends of Silver Falls invite community members to enjoy stargazing at the eighth annual Star Party on Saturday, Aug. 11, 9 p.m. to midnight at the main parking lot of the day use area. From there, follow the directions to the viewing area. For those who have attended this event before, it will be a change in venue from previous years.
Silver Falls State Park is one of the darkest, easily accessible locations in the Willamette Valley for viewing the night sky. Park Rangers and astronomers will present on celestial topics at 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. While visitors are encouraged to bring telescopes or binoculars, neither is necessary. The Salem astronomy club, Night Sky 45, will have staffed telescopes setup in the meadow throughout the event.
Packing for the park after dark is a little different than packing for the day. Rangers recommend bringing warm layers of clothing, a blanket or reclining chair, and a flashlight.
The Friends of Silver Falls will have night sky books and games available for purchase. The park will provide star charts, glow-in-the-dark bracelets and red cellophane flashlight covers.
This event is free, however, a parking pass is required. Visitors can purchase a one-day pass for $5 or an annual pass for $30.
Information about the Star Party and Silver Falls are available by calling 503-874-0201 or by visiting the website at www.oregonstateparks.org.
To learn more about Salem’s Night Sky 45 Astronomy Club, visit www.nightsky45.com.
To learn more about the Friends of Silver Falls or to volunteer for this event, call 503-581-4155 or visit www.friendsofsilverfalls.net
