Astronomy Festival

Great Basin National Park is holding an astronomy festival this weekend, and we went to the kickoff concert. Although it was sunny down in the valley, a big storm cloud had parked itself over the visitor center area, with light rain falling over the concert venue.

Folks pulled out their rain gear and sweatshirts and we eventually got started, with some very pleasant temperatures.

A variety of performers sang and played star- and sky-related songs.

We were also treated to some cowboy poetry.

The rain returned, so we moved under shelter and some kids performed "Twinkle, twinkle little star."

The evening flew by with all the great performances.

And the crowd really seemed to enjoy themselves.

I didn't know we had so many talented musicians in the valley!

After the final songs, it was time to meander over to the picnic area to take a look through one (or two or three) of the 40 telescopes that were set up. The telescopes ranged from fairly simple to hooked up to computers and TV screens. It was fascinating, and fortunately the clouds blew over, leaving the mighty Milky Way galaxy brightening the sky.

If you have a chance to go up to the festival, there are events all day today and tomorrow. Call the park for more details, 775-234-7331.