The 31st Nebraska Star Party will take place July 28th through August 2nd at Merritt Reservoir. The event provides an opportunity for attendees to learn more about astronomy and experience the night sky without light pollution.
Because of Merritt Reservoir’s particularly remote location, observers are able to experience an intense darkness that is not present in many other rural areas, let alone cities.
Longtime event attendee and organizer John Johnson says there is something special about observing a truly dark sky for the first time.
“We have a lot of people come from Minneapolis, Chicago, Kansas City, and Denver. They are just astounded,” said Johnson. “It’s almost a spiritual thing when people see the Milky Way shining from horizon to horizon.”
Each year, the event brings in approximately 300 attendees of all ages. This year’s event will feature workshops and activities for all knowledge and experience levels. For newbies, a Beginner’s Field School is available to help individuals find their way around the sky. The three day class will focus on a new skill each day and is designed to help attendees develop a preference for equipment when they decide to invest in a scope of their own. More advanced attendees will have the opportunity to attend workshops and gather with like-minded individuals.
Registration is required for those who wish to camp for the entire week, but the Nebraska Star Party welcomes anyone who wants to drop in and experience the event.
View the full Nebraska Star Party schedule here: https://www.nebraskastarparty.org/schedule/
Register here: https://www.nebraskastarparty.org/registration-form/
Listen to our interview with event organizer John Johnson here:
