Skip to main content

Leave your flashlights behind and look for constellations, wish on a shooting star, and dream of the mysteries that lie beyond the Milky Way. Local hospitality businesses are creating and promoting places and events that preserve and protect our Dark Skies, such as specials, packages and events for viewing astronomical wonders.

See Upcoming Events
Events & Locations for Astronomical Wonders

Astrotourism in Nelson County

Tap into your inner astronomer and admire the breathtaking views of the Dark Skies of Nelson County.

Here are the top astronomy events in June to mark on your calendar:

 

World Asteroid Day: June 30

The last day of the month is Asteroid Day, a time to emphasize the risks that asteroids pose. Although spotting an asteroid in the night sky can be difficult, even with a telescope, this day serves as an important reminder of these potential dangers.

“Asteroid Day as observed annually on 30 June is the United Nations sanctioned day of public awareness of the risks of asteroid impacts,” the Asteroid Day website explained. “Our mission is to educate the public about the risks and opportunities of asteroids.”

 

July offers rare meteor shower combo, stunning views of the Milky Way

Two meteor showers will peak at the same time in July with the cosmic glow of our galaxy serving as the backdrop. Here’s how to see the month’s top astronomical sights.

July will kick off with colorful flashes of light during Independence Day celebrations across the United States, but the cosmos has a light show of its own in store for stargazers later in the month, along with a few other celestial sights.

From a weather-inspired full moon to a pair of meteor showers, here are the top astronomy events to mark on your calendar:

Thunder Moon: July 10

The first full moon of astronomical summer will rise on Thursday, July 10. Known as the Thunder Moon, this lunar event will be visible across much of the world.

The name “Thunder Moon” comes from the frequent thunderstorms that rumble across North America in July. It’s also called the Buck Moon, as deer antlers are growing rapidly ahead of the autumn rut.

 

Look for the full moon rising in the southeastern sky around nightfall. It will shine brightly all night before setting in the southwest near daybreak.

 

Astronomical League for information and printable handouts useful for everyone from the casual observer to the moradvanced amateur astronomer. They also offer printable handouts fo every month of the year, centered around what’s up in the sky mid-month.

 

Travelers are over the moon for astrotourism

Dark Skies Packages

Indigo House: Dark Skies Package
Leave your flashlights behind and look for constellations, wish on a shooting star, and dream of the mysteries that lie beyond the Milky Way.

Just 10 minutes from Wood Ridge Farm Brewery, relax and recharge at the Indigo House, a modern bed & breakfast for outdoorsy humans and kind dogs. Add the Dark Skies Package to your stay and receive:

  • A Mediterranean picnic and dessert for two from Basic Necessities
  • Late check-out at 1 pm
  • Locally roasted coffee delivered to your room

Love Ridge: Stargazing Experience

STAY AND STARGAZE 
20% off Your 3-Day Stay + Stargazing Package.

Stay at Love Ridge and enjoy the delights of viewing the night sky with little ambient light. This Package is perfect to take in the night skies for an evening of family fun.

 

Devil’s Backbone Dark Skies Camping

We’re excited to help shine a light on the importance of preserving our incredible night skies here in the Blue Ridge 🌌

From now through December 31st, book any campsite at Devils Backbone Camp with code DARKSKIES and get 20% off your stay*. Whether you’re here to hike, stargaze, or sip a cold one, there’s no better place to enjoy the beauty of Nelson County than right here at Basecamp Brewpub & Meadows. Book your stay now at https://www.dbbrewingcompany.com/camp-at-basecamp and visit the link in our bio to learn more about the Dark Skies initiative. *BLACKOUT DATES AND RESTRICTIONS APPLY.

Observing Windows

An observing window is defined as a period of time (allowing for observing conditions) that provides at least 1 and 1/2 hours of observing after astronomical twilight, which occurs one and one half hours after sunset, and which takes place when the Moon provides less than 25% illumination.

Observing sessions or activities should take place only when clear, mostly clear or a few clouds from time to time are forecast, based on both the National Weather Service and the Clear Sky Clock. Because of these variables, scheduled observing sessions or activities should be planned with a rain date in mind, which should be announced no later than 6:00 pm on the day prior to an event.

  1. Visit the Charlottesville Astronomical Society Website
  2. Go to the Sky Conditions drop-down menu and choose the Clear Sky Clock for the Observatory on Fan Mountain – a tool used by amateur astronomers for a two-day look-ahead at upcoming observing conditions. It can be a bit on the conservative side but can be useful for re-scheduling an event or activity, if necessary. Then use the Weather Forecast tool in conjunction with the Clear Sky Clock.

Nautical Twilight (an hour after sunset): Observing the planets and brighter objects, plus satellites

Astronomical Twilight (an hour and a half after sunset): Nelson’s dark skies make their appearance, with the caveats mentioned above.

Dates

February 21-March 4
March 23-April 4
April 21-May 3
May 20-June 1
June 19-July 1
July 18-30
August 17-29
September 15-27
October 15-27
November 14-26
December 13-25

Out of this World Videos