Stargazing at the Park

Join us for three evenings of stargazing with retired WIU astronomy instructor Tom Van Heuklon and hobby astronomist Larry Knicl. Depending on the date, we will have the opportunity to observe planets and the Moon and Mars (June), Mars, Pluto and the Moon (August), Saturn, Pluto and Neptune and possibly remnants of the Orionids meteor shower (October); and many deep sky objects including star clusters, nebulae, other galaxies; and the varying seasonal constellations. These programs will be held at the parking lot near the park’s Sunset shelter (1st left turn upon entering the park). For your comfort, bring a chair or blanket, insect repellent, and a flashlight. To make viewing safer, observing will be done using a telescope connected to a video screen, rather than a telescope eyepiece. In the event of inclement weather or poor visibility, these programs may be canceled, so call before heading out if the sky isn’t clear. For more information, please call (309)776-3422 or email Bridget.Hinchee@illinois.gov