Smoky Mountain Stargazing Event

Great Smoky Mountains Purchase Knob stargazing event is your ticket to the stars!

Great Smoky Mountains Stargazing Event will be held at the Highlands Science Learning Center Friday, November 15, 2019 in North Carolina. The Highlands Science Learning Center is located high above Maggie Valley in North Carolina. This low light environment is the perfect spot to view the heavens on a cool fall night. The learning center is approximately 5,000 feet above sea level and is considered one of the best places in Haywood County to view constellations and planets.

The Asheville Astronomy Club will be on hand again to lead interplanetary travelers through the stars via a variety of powerful telescopes. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to view binary systems, star clusters and minute  details of the Milky Way and Andromeda Galaxies.

“National park areas offer a wonderful opportunity to stargaze,” says Park Superintendent Cassius Cash. “Visitors are often amazed at the amount of stars that can be seen simply by entering into the natural darkness of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.”

The fun will begin at 5:00 p.m. with a presentation indoors of what can be expected to be seen when the stars come out. At 5,000′ cold temperatures are to be expected so everyone is encouraged to dress warmly and bring rain gear – the event will proceed rain or shine. Space is limited in the free event and everyone is encouraged to sign up early. Participants must register in advance to reserve one of the 45 parking permits. Reservations for permits can be made at Star Gazing or by calling 828-497-1907.

For more information about stargazing in the park, please visit the park’s website at NPS.gov.