Dark Sky Night at Negwegon State Park

Experience One of Michigan’s Darkest Night Skies

Join the Friends of Negwegon State Park in coordination with the Michigan DNR and with support from Besser Museum for an unforgettable evening of astronomy, stargazing, and dark sky education along the Lake Huron shoreline.

Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM to 11:30 PM (Program starts just after 8 PM)
Location: Negwegon State Park, Lake Huron Shoreline
Admission: Free with a Michigan Recreation Passport

Featured Presenters

Jonathan Kade
Astronomer, astronomy educator, and outreach presenter affiliated with the Warren Astronomical Society and cofounder of the Dark Skies Alcona.

Diane Hall
President of the Warren Astronomical Society and longtime advocate for astronomy education and public outreach throughout Michigan, and cofounder of the Dark Skies Alcona.

John Heath
After retiring as a public-school teacher, John came to work at the Besser Museum to run the planetarium.

Event Highlights

• Astronomy presentation and dark sky education
• Telescope viewing of planets and deep sky objects
• Guided constellation tour
• Laser sky tour under the stars
• Discussion of light pollution and dark sky preservation
• Astronomy opportunities in Northeast Michigan
• Family-friendly educational activities
• Bonfire on the beach

Weather permitting, participants may have opportunities to observe:

• Saturn
• Venus
• The Crescent Moon
• Perseid meteor activity
• Constellations and deep sky objects

Accessibility

The event area is accessed via approximately 80 yards of gravel path followed by 80 yards of sandy dune trail. We strive to accommodate accessibility needs whenever possible. Guests may describe any accessibility requirements during the ticketing process so that we can make appropriate arrangements.

What to Bring

• Camp chair or blanket
• Warm clothing for evening temperatures near Lake Huron
• Flashlight (with a red lens if available)
• Bug repellant
• Curiosity and a sense of wonder

Dark Sky Etiquette

To protect everyone’s night vision, please minimize the use of white flashlights and bright screens. Red lighting is strongly encouraged. We will have some red filters to put over regular flash lights.

Event Registration

Please register for this event and indicate the number of people in your party. Get a free ticket at the following link:

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/night-sky-at-negwegon

About Negwegon

Negwegon State Park is one of Michigan’s most naturally dark locations, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience a night sky largely free from artificial light. This event celebrates the beauty of the natural night environment while promoting stewardship and appreciation of dark skies.

For event updates and registration information:

Friends of Negwegon State Park
FONSP.org
Facebook: Friends of Negwegon State Park