Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the beauty and importance of dark skies. Big Cypress National Preserve, designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2016 by the International Dark-Sky Association, is home to some of the darkest night skies in the eastern United States.
Immerse yourself in the splendor of the Milky Way as you participate in a ranger-led astronomy program, where thousands of stars shine brightly overhead, untouched by city lights. Weather permitting, you’ll enjoy telescope viewings of celestial wonders such as star clusters, planets, nebulae and distant galaxies, as well as guided constellation tours that bring the night sky to life.
Protecting dark skies is essential – not only for natural ecosystems but also for scientific research, cultural heritage and economic benefits tied to stargazing tourism. Neat nocturnal wildlife come out under dark skies, too – like the elusive insects that pollinate imperiled ghost orchids. National parks, including Big Cypress National Preserve, play a critical role in preserving our vanishing dark skies, ensuring future generations can continue to marvel at the night sky.
Come discover why NPCA champions these remarkable landscapes and how you can help safeguard our national parks and their precious night skies!
Event Details
WHAT: Big Cypress National Preserve Astronomy Program
WHEN: Saturday, February 22, 8 - 9 p.m. Hors d’oeuvres will be served from 7 - 7:45 p.m.
WHERE: Big Cypress National Preserve Welcome Center, 33000 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141
RSVP: Please RSVP here for more details. Questions about this event? Contact Cheryl Swaby at cswaby@npca.org for more information.
OTHER INFO: Please visit the NPS website for more information.