Long Lake one of 18 chosen as a site for statewide star party

PALISADE, MINN. – March 25, 2022 – Long Lake Conservation Center will host a Stargazers Family Campout as part of the University of Minnesota’s Bell Museum 3rd Annual Statewide Star Party on April 9 and 10.
The Bell Museum’s Star Party invites people to reflect and gain appreciation of cultural astronomy and entice appreciation of our shared skies through various cultural lenses. Long Lake is one of 18 venues selected to host, and will emphasize Ojibwe and Dakota constellations.
“We are honored to have been selected as a venue for this great event,” Long Lake Naturalist Katie Murphy said. “It’s going to be a lot of stargazing, with a mix of nature and outdoor adventure.”
Participants at Long Lake’s Stargazers Family Campout will enjoy a day of nature and a night of stargazing.
Arrive at 3 p.m. on April 9 for a naturalist-guided bog/nature hike, a bonfire with s’mores, and more.
Participants will learn about astronomy, with an emphasis on Ojibwe and Dakota constellations, before
heading out and gazing into space. Astronomy will be guided by Long Lake naturalists and members of the Minnesota Astronomical Society. Meals and lodging are included.
All stargazers will participate in organized activities and receive gifts and materials, courtesy of the Bell
Museum. Those interested in the Bell Museum activities and stargazing, but don’t wish to eat or stay overnight, the event is free.
All participants must register in advance at longlakecc.org/bell-star-party.  For more information, contact
Katie at 218-768-4653 or kathryn.murphy@longlakecc.org.