11/13-14: Free Dark Sky Viewing

FLOYD, VA — Members of the Ashe Dark Sky Coalition, led by dark sky advocate and environmental consultant Cory Dalton and astronomy enthusiast John Boston, will present two evenings of astronomy viewing and education at Floyd EcoVillage, 188 EcoVillage Trail SE, Floyd, VA 2409, on Friday and Saturday, November 13 and 14, from 6 p.m. to midnight, weather permitting. Each evening is a separate event, and attendees are welcome to participate in one or both. The event is free and open to the public.

Visitors will have an opportunity to explore the night sky through high-quality telescopes and other astronomical equipment, with views of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects as viewing conditions permit. Coalition members will share their knowledge of astronomy and discuss the importance of protecting dark skies from light pollution.

Attendees are encouraged to bring camp chairs and their own binoculars or telescopes for celestial viewing.

Dalton, who holds a Master of Public Health degree and has a background in environmental consulting and geology, is involved in dark sky education and advocacy in western North Carolina. The Ashe Dark Sky Coalition is working to raise public awareness of light pollution’s impact and promote responsible outdoor lighting practices, with a long-term goal of achieving International Dark Sky Community certification in Ashe County. “Our astronomy enthusiasts want to share their knowledge and observing equipment with the community while promoting light pollution awareness,” Dalton noted.

John Boston, also a member of the coalition, has promoted Electronically Assisted Astronomy (EAA) as a way for more people to participate in astronomy. EAA uses cameras and digital technology to make faint celestial objects easier to observe and share with groups. “In 2015, I started the Star Sherpa Network, a pilot project offering an online platform for astronomers to share their night skies and eyepiece views over the internet,” Boston explained. “Remote viewing sites in three states were made available online. Qualified astronomers were even allowed to reserve time to remotely operate one of the telescopes.”

Dark-sky-friendly lighting that reduces unnecessary illumination and directs light only where needed can improve visibility of the stars while supporting public safety, human health, wildlife, energy conservation, and the preservation of the rural character of communities like Floyd County.

“My interest in the connection between human health and nature inspires me to seek solutions that bring the two into harmony,” said Floyd County resident Beverly Hill, Public Health Emergency Coordinator for the New River Health District and one of the event organizers. “As a certified Southern Appalachian Naturalist, I enjoy educating our community and supporting environmentally friendly initiatives.”

Floyd County’s rural landscape and proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway offer valuable opportunities for dark sky viewing. The event also complements emerging local efforts to preserve and enhance the county’s dark skies through community education, responsible outdoor lighting, and exploration of the potential for dark sky tourism.

For event updates and weather-related announcements, visit the Facebook event page, “Floyd Dark Sky Viewing & Education Nights,” or email FloydDarkSkyCoalition@gmail.com to be added to the email list for time-sensitive notifications.

For more information about the Ashe Dark Sky Coalition and its educational activities, visit https://ashedarksky.org.