Stargaze at LBJ Ranch Saturday

STONEWALL – Make plans to view the wonders of the night sky at Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park on Saturday, Nov. 10. Beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the LBJ Ranch near Stonewall, the National Park Service will host programs highlighting the marvels of the night sky and the importance of preserving dark skies. The Hill Country Astronomers (HCA) will set up telescopes and offer a stargazing experience from 6:15 to 8:30 pm.

The event will begin with an astronomy program at 4:30 p.m. in the Hangar visitor center. John Watson, a member of HCA, will present a planetarium talk featuring dramatic audio-visual depictions of the night sky. A group of amateur astronomers founded HCA in 2011. Their educational mission encourages the public to learn about astronomy and space science. For more information, visit Hill Country Astronomers's website.

At 5:15 p.m., Wayne Gosnell, president of the Blanco County Friends of the Night Sky, will present “Big and Bright are the Stars at Night.” Gosnell is also a member of the Night Sky Team of the Hill Country Alliance. His presentation will emphasize that area residents are fortunate to enjoy beautiful night skies. But he will also discuss threats to the region’s night skies, and the impacts of light pollution on wildlife, human health, the local economy and the region’s heritage. He will provide tips on night-friendly lighting. 

For more information, visit Blanco County Night Sky's website and Hill Country Alliance's website.