Upper Valley Land Trust to Host Star Gazing Party
Third Annual Mountain View Farm Star Gazing Party
The Upper Valley Land Trust is hosting an end-of-summer star gazing party at Mountain View Farm Conservation Area in Orford, NH on September 18th. Bobby Farlice-Rubio, of the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, will be giving a tour of the night sky beginning at 8 pm. Mountain View Farm in the Quinttown region of Orford is the perfect place to take a tour of the night sky. Its remote location, 360 degree view, and lack of electric light pollution mean you can see the whole sky on a clear night.
This is the third year that UVLT has held this event at Mountain View Farm. "It's basically a tradition at this point." said Programs Director Alison Marchione "It's one of the few in-person events that we felt we could still hold. The field at Mountain View Farm is quite large and Bobby will be using a portable mic and speaker to give the tour. We believe that people will be able to spread out enough to feel safe while still getting to experience the beautiful spot. The sky is just incredible at Mountain View at night and it's really a treat to have a professional out there to tell us what we are looking at."
Doors open at 7 pm for those who want to come early and find their perfect viewing spot. The tour of the night sky begins at 8pm. UVLT highly recommends arriving by 7:30pm at the latest to find your spot while there is still light in the sky! In the past, participants have brought a picnic dinner to enjoy the time spent waiting for the sun to set.
UVLT asks folks to bring their own blankets and chairs, and a flashlight or headlamp. Flashlights will be necessary to find your way when leaving the event! Please note that there is no electricity, potable water, or restroom on site.
Covid Precautions
Each family/group will have their own designated viewing spot, at least 10 ft from anyone else. Please wear a mask upon arrival and departure and at all times when not eating or drinking if you bring a picnic dinner. When you arrive, UVLT staff or volunteers will help you find your spot and provide you with a glow in the dark tag. Please wear this tag so that you are visible to others should anyone need to move around in the dark.
If you have questions about this event please contact Alison Marchione at alison.marchione@uvlt.org