Have you ever wanted to learn more about the stars and planets? Join us for an evening under the stars as we learn more about the importance of darkness and how to capture images of the night sky. In this program, attendees will be introduced to astrophotography, navigation of the night sky, learn basic constellations and astronomical objects including the moon, important stars and any visible planets.

What to Expect and How to Prepare: Please arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 p.m. – the program will start at 9:00 p.m. We ask for your promptness to avoid light pollution and noise disruption. We will be setting up in an open field area or along the universally accessible (UA) trail at Clark Nature Preserve. Please arrive promptly to set up your night sky viewing space in the meadow or on the UA trail prior to the program start time of 9:00 p.m.

Please dress appropriately for the weather. Personal insect repellent is recommended. Binoculars and telescopes are highly suggested – there will be a few telescopes for shared viewing. We recommend bringing a chair (reclining recommended!) or blanket. Water or non-alcoholic beverages and snacks are permitted. We recommend downloading a flashlight app on Android or iPhone with a red light function or bringing a headlamp with a red light setting. No white light is to be used during this event. There will be a port-a-john on site. Appropriate for ages 12 and up (participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult).

Note: Lancaster Conservancy nature preserves are closed for regular visitation from dusk to dawn, except for select Conservancy-led educational events.

About the Presenter: George Eppig will be co-leading this event. George was raised in Maryland, about 30 minutes north of Baltimore. Growing up, he always had an interest in nature and was taking trips with his mom regularly to places like Algonquin, Nova Scotia, or Maine. After graduating from Penn State University, he took a job working as a deckhand aboard a pungy schooner named The Lady Maryland, which is where he discovered a love photography. Seeing incredible sights while working aboard the ship prompted him to want to share what he was seeing with others, and so he bought his first camera to begin a now 18-year long journey to capture nature and tell meaningful stories about our world. When not out taking photographs, George is a stay-at-home dad to his two amazing boys ages 4 and 2, and enjoys spending time with them along with his incredible wife, Rachel.

Refund Policy: These events often sell out. If you are unable to attend this event after purchasing a ticket, refund requests must be made at least 48 hours before the event.

Animal Policy: Service animals active or in training are welcome. Please leave all pets at home.

Cancellation Policy: This event will be held rain or shine, with cancellation for severe weather made at the time of the event. If the Conservancy reschedules the event, attendees will be emailed and tickets will be automatically moved to the new date. If the Conservancy cancels the event, attendees will be notified via email when possible and refunded.

Thank you to our generous annual sponsors for making this event possible!