Discovering Dazzling New Depths of Dark Skies
Discovering Dazzling New Depths of Dark Skies
A philosopher once asked, Are we human because we gaze at the stars, or do we gaze at them because we are human?
― Neil Gaiman
Alabama is beautiful in the day and night. There are numerous sights and sounds to celebrate the sensory landscape of Cheaha State Park when the sun sets. Bring your family and friends to explore and wonder of this breathtaking landscape together. We will begin by learning about threats to dark skies, in a presentation led by Dr. Michelle Wooten, an astronomy educator at University of Alabama Birmingham and an International Dark-Sky Association Delegate.
Discovering New Dark Skies
Why are dark skies important? Living things - humans, plants, and nonhuman animals - need dark skies to rejuvenate and navigate. Light fixtures that create glare, light trespass, and reduction of the visibility of stars negatively influence these natural processes. Satellites in orbit around Earth measure that worldwide artificial light at night is increasing at the fast rate of 2% each year at minimum. During this presentation, Alabamians can learn how they can join a growing international effort to preserve dark skies through lighting choices that support our harmony with the natural world.
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2022
Time: 7:00 pm-8:00 pm
Location: Interpretive Center (Cheaha Lake)
Cost: FREE for overnight guests or with Park Admission
Take a Hike: Night Hike
Stroll under a stunning starry canopy as you listen for the hooting of owls, observe the fluttering of bats, and watch the twinkling of stars. Experience the stellar secret world of nocturnal wildlife during this fun night hike with Park Naturalist Mandy Pearson.
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2022
Time: 8:00 pm-9:00 pm
Location: Interpretive Center (Cheaha Lake)
Cost: FREE for overnight guests or with Park Admission
Eco Explorers: Steller Stargazing Stories
For countless years we have stared at the stars in awe and wonder. They inspire us, confound us, guide us and so much more. Have you ever wondered about the stories behind a constellation’s name? Join Dr. Laura Weinkauf from the Department of Chemistry and Geosciences at Jacksonville State University to learn more about the stellar world of stars.
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2022
Time: 9:00 PM-9:30 PM
Location: Interpretive Center (Cheaha Lake)
Cost: FREE for overnight guests or with Park Admission
Eco Explorers: Star Party
Spread a blanket on the meadow and soak in the shimmering stars, cozy up by the fire, create a star wheel and learn how to use it to navigate the night sky, or make some out-of-this-world art in the Interpretive Center! Bring your own marshmallows and s’more supplies and enjoy a fireside treat!
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2022
Time: 9:30 PM-10:00 PM
Location: Interpretive Center (Cheaha Lake)
Cost: FREE for overnight guests or with Park Admission
For more information email Mandy.Pearson@dcnr.alabama.gov or call (256) 412-9938.
