Stargazing Program Offered in Cades Cove - October 13, 2007

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Rangers will offer a 2-hour stargazing program in Cades Cove on October 13, beginning a 7 p.m. Several telescopes and in-depth astronomy knowledge will be provided by the Smoky Mountains Astronomical Society.

The scheduled tour in Cades Cove will be a discovery of the autumn sky’s position of stars, galaxies, and constellations. According to Park Ranger Mike Maslona, "Along with preserving wildlife and historic sites, Cades Cove also preserves a dark, clear night sky. In more developed areas outside the Park, the amount of artificial light tends to both reduce the viewer’s night vision and to wash out the fainter stars. We selected this night because there will be no moonlight to mask the stars."

Participants for the program should park near the exhibit shelter at the entrance to the Cades Cove Loop Road, and join Rangers in the field just inside the Loop Road. Those planning to attend should dress warmly, and bring a flashlight and a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. In case of rain, the program will move to the Cades Cove amphitheatre.

Contact: Nancy Gray, (865) 436-1208

Gatlinburg