There’s nothing like watching stars in a dark sky on a cool evening in the warm months. And there’s no better place to view the majesty of the night sky than Staunton River State Park, which in 2015 was designated as an International Dark Sky Park.
The designation marks the Virginia state park as an exceptional place from which to observe the stars, planets and other celestial phenomena. It came about after park officials recognized the appeal of the park’s naturally dark nighttime character. They then began welcoming visitors specifically for that attraction.
Staunton River Star Party
In 2011, the park hosted the first Staunton River Star Party with the Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observational Society (CHAOS). Members of CHAOS identified the park by looking on a dark sky map. The star parties are held each spring and fall. They often attract well over 100 participants from across North America.
Check out one of these highlights in the summer night sky. You can determine the likelihood of great views by using this clear sky chart.
Celestial events, summer 2019
May 6, 7: Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower.
The Eta Aquarids can be capable of producing up to 60 meteors per hour at its peak, although only 30 per hour in the northern hemisphere. The meteors consist of dust particles left behind by the famous Halley’s Comet, next scheduled to return in 2061. The shower peaks this year on the night of May 6 and the morning of the May 7. Best viewing is after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Aquarius, but can appear anywhere in the sky.
June 10: Jupiter at Opposition.
Jupiter, the largest planet in the solar system, will be at its closest approach to Earth and its face will be fully illuminated by the sun. It will be brighter than any other time of the year and visible all night long.
June 21: Summer Solstice.
The sun reaches its northernmost point in the sky on the longest day—and shortest night—of the year in the northern hemisphere.
June 23: Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation.
Mercury reaches its greatest eastern elongation of 25.2 degrees from the sun. This is the best time to view Mercury, since it will be at its highest point above the horizon in the evening sky. Look for it low in the western sky just after sunset.
July 9: Saturn at Opposition.
Saturn will be at its closest approach to Earth, and its face will be fully illuminated by the sun. It will be brighter than any other time of the year and will be visible all night long.
August 12-13: Perseid Meteor Shower.
The Perseid shower produces up to 60 meteors per hour at its peak, and this year is especially good for viewing. The crescent moon sets early in the evening, leaving a dark, moonless sky for the rest of the night and into the next morning.
September 23: Autumnal Equinox
The first day of fall arrives, with equal hours of day and night.