Join star party host Sean O'Brien of the Museum's Albert Einstein Planetarium and amateur astronomers for telescopic observing under dark, star-filled skies, away from city lights. The May 31 program is part of the park’s Astronomy Day programming with the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club, 3:00 - 11:00 pm. The program begins with a half-hour "Junior Astronomer" program for children ages 5-12. Next is a presentation by a Jet Propulsion Laboratory Solar System Ambassador followed by night sky orientation. One of the telescopes available is a National Air and Space Museum Celestar-8, a typical "backyard" telescope available to amateur astronomers. If weather allows, there will also be telescopic observing of astronomical objects.
Sky Meadows State Park is west of Washington, D.C. on US Route 17 North, 1 mile south of US Route 50, or 7 miles north of Interstate 66, Exit 23. The park phone number is (540) 592-3556.
There is a $5 parking fee per car. Please cover flashlights with a red filter or a brown paper bag. Dress warmly. If the sky is cloudy, only the "Junior Astronomer" and multi-media programs will be presented and the park gates will close at 9:00 p.m.
Star gazers await darkness at Sky Meadows State Park during a National Air and Space Museum Saturday Star Party.
Support the Museum
We rely on the generous support of donors, sponsors, members, and other benefactors to share the history and impact of aviation and spaceflight, educate the public, and inspire future generations. With your help, we can continue to preserve and safeguard the world’s most comprehensive collection of artifacts representing the great achievements of flight and space exploration.