Superintendent Larry Whalon of Lava Beds National Monument invites the public to participate in the sixth annual Astronomy Day and Star Party Event on Saturday, September 2nd from 1:00 pm to midnight.

Throughout the day, visitors of all ages can participate in a special Night Sky Junior Ranger Program. From 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, several sun-safe telescopes will be set up for viewing and learning about our closest star. Visitors will also have the opportunity to fashion a solar bead bracelet, learn about moon phases, match planets, explore constellations from inside Mushpot Cave, enter a star lodge, and much more!

As the sun gets ready to set, more activities will begin, including a sunset hike to the top of Schonchin Butte at 7:00 pm (please get your free ticket at the visitor center in advance) and at 7:30, an evening program about comets and asteroids will begin in the campground amphitheater.

From 9:00 pm to midnight, the parking lot at the visitor center will hold a star party complete with hot drinks, telescopes, and amateur astronomers who will help you learn more about the moon and various constellations in our hemisphere. Feel free to bring your own picnic dinner to enjoy at the park as the day’s events occur.

There is no cost for the event; however the standard park entrance fee of $15 per vehicle is applicable. Indian Well Campground, conveniently located adjacent to the visitor center, will be open on a first come-first serve basis. For directions and further information, please call Lava Beds National Monument at 530-667-8113 or visit the website at www.nps.gov/labe.