RUSSELL-When was the last time you gazed at the heavens and wondered how you could help protect the night sky?
Join astronomers on the evening of March 2 as a unique educational experience titled “Star Party: Protecting the Dark Skies” takes place at the Appalachian Mountain Club’s Noble View Outdoor Center at 635 South Quarter Road.
From its mountaintop location, the Noble View Outdoor Center in Russell will be the setting for a “Star Party” on March 2. (James Nardacci, Jr. photo)
Tom and Nancy Condon will host the 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. program which features an evening of star observation, constellation exploration, and mythological storytelling.
“We are losing the darkness of our skies with city lights and the darkness is important for humans, plants and animals,” said Nancy Condon, an environmental educator for more than 30 years. She is currently student teaching for the Gateway Regional School District in Huntington.
“Plants and animals depend on Earth’s daily cycle of light and dark to govern life-sustaining behaviors such as reproduction, nourishment, sleep and protection from predators,” said Condon. “Humans need the natural day/night cycle for good health as well.”
Condon added that a growing number of scientists, advocates and conservationists say the naturally dark sky should be protected as a “valuable resource” that helps keep humans connected to their shared history of stars while aiding plants, animals and insects that evolved without artificial illumination.
During the evening, astronomers Tom Condon, Jack Megas and Dave Gallup will engage participants in the importance of seeing all the stars in the sky. Telescopes will be set up allowing astronomers to point out particular stars and constellations and share their knowledge of the night sky.
“We will also have a station for storytelling,” said Condon, noting that Cassiopeia, a mythological queen, and Pegasus, the winged horse, will be among the stories told. “These stories, told for centuries, are immortalized in the constellations.”
Another highlight of the evening will be information on the International Dark Sky Association (IDSA).
“The International Dark Sky Association promotes not only the importance of having dark skies for health reasons but for observation reasons as well,” said Condon, adding that the Appalachian Mountain Club is working in Maine toward the designation of 75,000 acres as a Dark Sky Reserve through the IDSA. “This would be only the second reserve in the United States and 10th in the world.”
A station will also educate participants on how we all can make a difference protecting the dark skies.
“It can be difficult to see the Milky Way and stars because light is emanating out of our cities and filling our skies so the idea is to eliminate the glow of light,” said Condon, noting that simple steps including lighting fixtures that shine down on roads and sidewalks instead of up can cut down on wasted energy going into the atmosphere.
During the evening participants will also be encouraged to enjoy the comfort of the Noble View cottage with its wood-burning stove while sipping hot chocolate. Also, Condon suggests that everyone attending bring a chair while sitting on the hill and beholding the sky – as well as taking in the view toward Westfield and beyond to Springfield – and to dress in layers and wear appropriate foot wear to ensure one’s comfort. In the event of heavy rain or snow, the program will be canceled.
Lastly, an optional night hike is being offered and participants should bring a flashlight. Red cellophane will be provided to cover the flashlight surface.
“We will take a short loop through the woods, stopping along the way to call for owls, and to observe what else might be in close proximity to Noble View,” said Condon, adding, “the hike will be a sensory experience.”
The cost is $5 per person and registration is required by Feb. 25. To register, visit the Noble View website – nobleviewoutdoorcenter.org – click on programs and education, then click on PayPal link “Buy.” For other registration options, contact Laura Stinnette via email at [email protected] or call (413) 454-3232.
From the parking lot, there is an approximate five-minute walk along a road to the cottage and station areas. There are a couple of spots available next to the cottage for handicapped parking.
Condon said as an environmental educator she encourages kids to get outside and behold real life and wildlife – up-close.
“The importance of a program like this is to get kids out of their comfort zone, away from their electronic screens, and to look at the sky which provided the entertainment for our ancestors,” said Condon. “Whenever I take kids outside there is never any regret because there is always excitement and wonderment.”
Condon said she shares the same sentiment for adults.
“Adults have an equal amount of amazement when we look at the stars,” said Condon. “Adults also come away from the program with humility – us little folks on this little blue globe. It is very humbling.”
