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Washoe Lake State Park hosts Summer Solstice astronomy party

Event Date: 
June 21, 2014 - 8:30pm

Discover the wonders of the night sky at Washoe Lake State Park on Saturday, June 21 as local astronomy experts Jay Lawson and Adam Kremers will have telescopes set up to view Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, and all the best objects of the summer Milky Way.

The Summer Solstice Astronomy Party runs from from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. or later at the Maze/Playground (Overflow) parking area inside Washoe Lake State Park.

To get there, take Exit 44 (for Eastlake Boulevard) off Highway 395 between Reno and Carson City. Follow Eastlake Boulevard for about 3.5 miles to the main park entrance and follow the signs to the overflow boat parking area.

The event is open to the public and is sponsored by Nevada State Parks. There is no charge for the program, but there is a $7/vehicle entrance fee. Nevada residents receive a $2 discount. For more information call 775-687-4319 or e-mail washoelake@hdiss.net. Red lights, or flashlights wrapped in red plastic, are recommended, as they do not negatively affect night vision. Participants may want to bring a lawn chair, or something to sit on, during the presentation.

Elsewhere, Lake Tahoe sky gazers can enjoy a laser-guided tour of starry wonders with professional stargazer and astronomy instructor, Gigi Giles on Friday, June 20, from 8:30 to 10 p.m. at Spooner Lake State Park.

Delight in a unique and educational experience as you peer through the provided high powered telescopes and astronomical binoculars in the tranquil mountain air at an elevation of 7,000 feet. Learn various aspects of astronomy and space science.

Meet in the upper parking lot. Spooner Lake is located at the intersection of State Route 28 and U.S. Highway 50. The event is open to the public.

There is a per vehicle entry fee of $10; Nevada residents receive a $2 discount. Contact the park Supervisor at 775-831-0494 ext. 224. Pets not recommended. Please wear comfortable shoes and bring a warm jacket and flashlight.

“Like” us on Facebook for more information about the park, pictures, and other events.

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