Dark Skies & Deep Space: A Winter Night Under the Stars

Wednesday, December 9th, 2026 from 4:30pm to 7:30pm (MT)

About

Come explore the wonders of the December night sky! As daylight fades and the stars emerge, we'll discover familiar constellations, hear the stories behind their names, and explore star clusters, distant galaxies, and other celestial wonders. We'll trace the distinctive W of Cassiopeia, find the Andromeda Galaxy, and explore the constellations of Perseus and Taurus. As darkness deepens, we'll turn toward the winter sky to find the Pleiades star cluster and Orion, home to the spectacular Orion Nebula, where new stars are forming. Depending on conditions and visibility, we may also have opportunities to observe planets through telescopes.

Join OSMP staff and partners from the Longmont Astronomical Society, DarkSky Colorado, and the Fiske Planetarium for an evening of guided stargazing and telescope viewing beneath Boulder’s night sky.


Together, we’ll discover:

  • Constellations and celestial stories: Find Cassiopeia, Andromeda, Perseus, Orion, and other patterns in the night sky.
  • Beyond our own galaxy: Explore the Andromeda Galaxy and consider the vast scale of the universe.
  • Star clusters and stellar nurseries: Discover the Pleiades and the Orion Nebula through telescopes. 

Telescopes are provided. Friends and family welcome—all ages and experience levels encouraged.

What to bring:

  • Red flashlight or headlamp – Helps preserve night vision (avoid white light) 
  • Warm layers – Temperatures drop quickly after sunset 
  • Blanket or camp chair – Makes skywatching more comfortable
  • Water and snacks – Stargazing is better when you’re hydrated and happy 
  • Binoculars – Many star clusters and bright objects look great with small optics 
  • Please leave dogs at home 
Positions
98 Remaining
Age Limit
All Ages
Parking Details
Parking is limited at the Beech Shelter. If the lot is full, additional parking is available at the Left Hand Trailhead, about a ¾-mile walk from the shelter.

A few people you will meet... View Details