Join Oracle State Park and renowned comet discoverer David H. Levy for a Star Party on Saturday, September 24, 2022. Be dazzled by the objects that light up the night sky, hear interesting educational presentations, and enjoy musical performances.

On a cloudless night in Oracle, the stars shine brighter than most have ever seen, thanks to minimal light pollution in and surrounding the 4,000 acre wildlife refuge. Prepare to be amazed as you take in the staggering number of celestial objects with the naked eye, and get a closer look through the telescope’s viewfinder.

Oracle State Park was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2014. This distinction is earned by a public land possessing an exceptional quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and public enjoyment.

Apart from dark sky viewing through telescopes, attendees will be treated to a bat presentation, a geology walk, and two musical performances. Delicious sweet treats will be available for purchase. The event is free with a paid park admission fee of $7 per vehicle.

This event is co-hosted by David H. Levy, discoverer of 23 comets and author of 34 books on astronomical subjects. The Star Party is being held in conjunction with Explore Scientific’s Oracle Dark Sky Cultural Festival–a week-long event for astronomy enthusiasts featuring nightly observations, special lectures, and overnight camping. Tickets to this extended festival are available for purchase at explorescientific.com.

Don’t miss out on this fun and memorable event! See the full event schedule, facility information, and directions at azstateparks.com/oracle. For visitors traveling to Oracle and interested in overnight accommodations, advance camping reservations are available at Catalina State Park, 23 miles south of Oracle State Park.

WHAT: Star Party

WHERE: Oracle State Park - 3820 Wildlife Drive, Oracle, Ariz.

WHEN: September 24, 2022 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m