Maine is one of the last dark sky states on the East Coast where we can still see the stars and the Milky Way. Join us at the Wilson Museum for an indoor/outdoor star party to celebrate and learn about Maine’s beautiful dark sky. Master Maine Guide and amateur astronomer Karen Francoeur will share easy ways to begin identifying the stars and the students of the Witherle Memorial Library Night Sky Steward Group will impart tips on how we can all be good night sky stewards. Then, granted the sky is clear, venture outside and practice identifying the stars in the emerging winter constellations. Everyone is encouraged to bring binoculars, layers, and a chair or blanket for the outdoor portion of the program.

Karen Francoeur of Castine Kayak Adventures is a Master Maine Guide and amateur astronomer. In the summer, she leads paddlers through our galaxy in a floating planetarium during Castine Kayak’s bioluminescent night tours. 

The Witherle Memorial Library Night Sky Steward Group aims to minimize light pollution in Castine through education. Beginning in the spring of 2022, the group of students led by librarian Debra Orado educates the public on how to be good night sky stewards at the flip of a switch and the effects of light pollution on our health, circadian rhythms, and the wildlife on the land and in the water. The message of turning out your outside lights when you are not outside is one to be repeated.

This program is part of the Starlight: A Guide Throughout Time segment of the Wilson Museum’s Connecting to Collections program series made possible through the generous support of Bangor Savings Bank.