NPS - National Park Service

05/18/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/19/2022 08:05

ALIBATES FLINT QUARRIES STAR PARTY SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2022

News Release Date:
May 18, 2022

Contact:Tim Cruze, 806-857-6680

Fritch, Texas - Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument will be hosting the second public event of the year, the "Alibates Star Party." The Alibates Star Party is scheduled for Saturday, May 21, 2022. This event is part of the Night Skies Program as, we celebrate evening activities in the park.

The remoteness of Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument provides one of the best viewing locations of the night sky in the Texas Panhandle. Ranger conducted activities will begin at 8:00 p.m. for children wishing to earn their official Junior Ranger Night Explorer patch. The Junior Ranger activity will be followed by an outdoor presentation at 9:00 p.m. and the outdoor viewing will begin around 9:30 p.m. Evening programs include:

Junior Ranger Night Explorer: Children can earn an official Junior Ranger Night Explorer patch by participating in the activity and completing the Night Explorer Junior Ranger activity booklet. Activities will begin at the Alibates Visitor Center at 8:00 pm and last about 45 minutes.

Outdoor Presentation: The program will begin with a presentation outside at the Alibates Visitor Center at 9:00 p.m., Professor Arthur Schneider, Director of Renewable

Energy at Amarillo College, will provide a presentation on the Panhandle night sky and stars.

Night Sky Viewing: Multiple telescopes will be set up, including a 16" reflecting telescope, which will allow participants to observe star clusters, planets, and galaxies. Professor Schneider will guide visitors in observing the night sky with telescopes, binoculars, and the naked eye assisted by Park Rangers.

Participants should bring outdoor clothing, lawn chairs and insect repellent. Activities are free and open to the public. In case of inclement or cloudy weather, the event will be cancelled. For additional information, we ask that you please call the Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument at 806-857-6680 to sign up for the wonderful Star Party.