Skye & Stars: A Night to Remember

September evenings at Skye Canyon bring cool breezes rolling off the Spring Mountains and perfect stargazing conditions. On Saturday, September 10, more than 500 people of all ages spread out blankets and enjoyed music and a sunset picnic at Skye Canyon Park. When the skies grew dark, members of the Las Vegas Astronomical Society (LVAS) guided attendees through a tour of the night sky at Skye & Stars; a special evening that was a part of our ongoing Fit Lives Here series of community events.

The LVAS team had ten telescopes on-site including two Mallincams, powerful high-tech astronomy video cameras, and a space-age purple laser that points directly to an object in the night sky making it easy to view stars and the galaxies. Guests were treated to an ‘up close’ view of the moon’s craters and mountain ridges, the rings of Saturn, Mars, the Andronis Galaxy and Neptune. More than 100 of the Skye and Stars attendees listened to an educational presentation on Saturn.

Before dark, kids were able to play on the jungle gyms in Skye Canyon Park while DJ ToneArmz created a festive vibe. Rachel’s Kitchen was also on hand selling boxed picnic dinners.

LVAS is a local non-profit organization made up of passionate amateur astronomers. The group was formed to promote astronomy, educate the public, and support schools with similar astronomical programs. For more information on this great organization visit www.lvastronomy.com.