The Watoga State Park Foundation is the host for a dark sky Star Party to be conducted at Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park on Friday, September 22, 2023. Anyone is welcome to meet at the Droop Mountain Tower at 8:00 pm. Amateur astronomers will be on hand to answer questions and discuss various aspects of the night sky. In the event of rain, the star party will move to September 24. This activity is held at Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park that provides a great opportunity for open sky viewing.

September 22, 2023 is also International Astronomy Day. This fall date celebrates not only astronomy but more importantly encourages the general public, astronomy amateur and professionals to look up worldwide at the sky from planet earth.

West Virginia is home to three official Dark Sky Parks designated by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA): Watoga State Park, Calvin Price State Forest, and Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park. The parks were given official Dark Sky status in October 2021.

Telescopes for viewing will be stationed at the Droop Mountain Tower area. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars. There is no charge to attend. Visit Watoga State Park Foundation website to learn more about Dark Sky designation and information.

Droop Mountain Battlefield is a day use park but lodging is available nearby at Watoga.

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