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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: February 12, 2024
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Staunton River State Park invites astronomer to Spring Star Party

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Photo courtesy of Jonathan Piques)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Star Party)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Staunton River Dark Sky Observation Field)

SCOTTSBURG, VA – Staunton River State Park is thrilled to announce its upcoming Spring Star Party sponsored by the Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observational Society (CHAOS). This week-long astronomy festival gives stargazing enthusiasts of all ages the chance to experience the night sky at an International Dark Sky Park like they’ve never done before.

From March 4 through March 10, astronomers are invited to bring their telescopes and camp on the park’s Dark Sky Observation Field, which is renowned for its dark sky and excellent stargazing conditions. On Friday and Saturday afternoons, attendees can hear from different speakers, including the president of DarkSky International and a NASA ambassador.

"We're excited to welcome visitors to Staunton River State Park for our annual Spring Star Party," said Park Manager James Wright. "With our pristine dark skies and knowledgeable astronomers, this event promises to be a highlight for anyone interested in astronomy and the wonders of the universe."

Admission to the Spring Star Party is $110 for the full week or $60 for the weekend (Thursday-Sunday). These prices include camping privileges on the field. Registration closes on Feb. 26. To learn more about the Spring Star Party or to register, click here (https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/event?id=2023-11-07-18-16-08-920226-kon) or email stauntonriverstarparty@gmail.com.

The Spring Star Party is open to the public on Friday, March 8. From 8 to 10 p.m., visitors will have the opportunity to meet the astronomers on the observation field and explore the cosmos themselves. The Star Party is free to attend for the public on Friday; however, standard parking fees apply. To learn more about the public night, click here (www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/event?id=2023-11-07-18-17-47-896882-y7x).

Astronomers unable to attend the Spring Star Party can mark their calendars for the Fall Star Party. It’s scheduled for Sept. 30 through Oct. 6, with a public night on Friday, Oct. 4.

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Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit virginiastateparks.gov.

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