The Acadia Night Sky Festival will offer a free “Shuttle to the Stars” as public transportation to the Star Party on Cadillac Mountain, which will take place from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Saturday, September 27. The public is invited to drop in at any time during the program (the best star viewing will be after 9:00 p.m.) and visit with volunteer astronomers and park rangers who will describe constellations and other night sky features visible with the naked eye, binoculars, and telescopes. The road going up to Cadillac Mountain will be closed to all motor vehicles (except those that need parking for persons with disabilities) at 6:30 p.m. so visitors must use the shuttle to attend this event.
The shuttle will run continuously between Hulls Cove Visitor Center (located off Route 3 in Bar Harbor) and Cadillac Mountain from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm. The last shuttle will depart Hulls Cove Visitor Center at 9:30 pm, and the last shuttle will depart Cadillac Mountain at 10:30 pm. Using the shuttle will alleviate traffic congestion on Cadillac Mountain and help prevent headlights from disrupting the dark conditions needed to view stars and other celestial features. Oli’s Trolley, Acadia’s original trolley sightseeing tour, and Northeast Charter & Tour Company have generously donated a portion of their services to make the free shuttle possible.
Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly and minimize flashlight use to preserve night vision. If available, visitors should use a red night vision flashlight or cover a standard flashlight with red cellophane. Please note that dogs and other pets are not allowed. The Summit Center gift shop and restrooms will be open during the event. Please call 207-200-1536 to find out if this event has been cancelled due to weather.
The Star Party on Cadillac Mountain is a highlight of the 6th will take place in Acadia National Park and the surrounding communities on Mount Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula from September 25 to 29. The Acadia Night Sky Festival is a community celebration to promote the protection and enjoyment of Downeast Maine’s stellar night sky as a valuable natural resource through education, science and the arts. The festival will feature nearly 40 programs, including hikes, workshops, lectures, crafts, films, art exhibits, and, of course, stargazing.
For a complete schedule and description of activities, please call 207-288-5103 or visit our website at www.acadianightskyfestival.org.
