Stargazing in the Berkshires

Kids who have background knowledge in astronomy can look for constellations, stars, planets, etc. to identify themselves, or learn to locate and name new space objects!  Families can also bring along their own binoculars and/or telescopes to get assistance on using them to view the night sky.

See the stars up close!  On Saturday, August 11th beginning at 8pm, atop the summit of Mt. Greylock in Adams, MA, the Amherst Area Amateur Astronomers Association (the 5A’s) will share a variety of telescopes with families interested in learning about the sky above them.

As a result of the mountain’s location – with its low horizons and lack of light pollution – the summit is a perfect place for stargazing.  The 5A’s will have telescopes on hand whose lenses range in size from three to twenty inches, the largest of which are nearly eight feet tall!

Kids who have background knowledge in astronomy can look for constellations, stars, planets, etc. to identify themselves, or learn to locate and name new space objects!  Families can also bring along their own binoculars and/or telescopes to get assistance on using them to view the night sky.

Stargazing is not only a fun activity – it also can be a valuable learning opportunity!  Older students can tie studies of astronomy to principles of math, physics, and chemistry, while younger students can learn about our solar system and celestial landmarks, cultural significance of constellations and the zodiac, and the history of space travel.  The event will be cancelled if there is rain or cloud cover.  For more information call the Mt. Greylock Visitor Center at 413-499-4262. There will be another stargazing opportunity at Mt. Greylock on  Saturday, September 22nd at 8pm.

Families can also go stargazing at Notchview in Windsor, MA with the Trustees of Reservations and representatives from Arunah Hill Natural Science Center, same night beginning at dusk  Kids of all ages can gaze through telescopes and learn to identify planets, stars, etc.  Rain date: Aug 12.  413-532-1631.  Old Route 9.

All events are free.

[Photo credi: (ccl) makelessnoise]