With the planet Mars as the starring attraction, WCCO meteorologist and well-known stargazing guide Mike Lynch will host a star watch party at Lake Shetek State Park on Friday, Aug. 24, and Camden State Park on Saturday, Aug. 25. Both programs will take place from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.
This summer, Mars is as close as it’s been to Earth in 15 years and nearly as close as it’s been in 60,000 years. Park visitors can get to know more about our Martian neighbor through giant telescopes aimed at the red planet, as well as the moon, Jupiter, Saturn and other great celestial treasures. They’ll also check out the constellations like The Big Bear, Cygnus the Swan, Pegasus the Winged Horse, and some of their great stories behind them.
Guests are encouraged to dress for the weather and bring lawn chairs.
Mike Lynch has been hosting star watch parties and teaching astronomy classes for over 45 years. He also writes a weekly stargazing column for the St. Paul Pioneer Press and is the author of the books, “Mike Lynch’s Minnesota Star Watch,” and “Stars, a Month by Month Tour of the Constellations.”
