PARK AFTER DARK: Moonwalk & Stargazing Party

“There’s a full moon risin’. Let’s go dancin’ in the light. We know where the music’s playin’. Let’s go out and feel the night.” –Neil Young, Harvest Moon

Join Fairmount Park Conservancy and astronomer/educator Buddy Muhler for a two-mile guided moonwalk and telescope observation on September 26 from 7–9 PM. September’s full moon is known as the Harvest Moon because it’s the closest to the fall equinox and offers extra hours of light for farmers harvesting their summer crops. The Harvest Moon holds major cultural significance in many different communities who spend this full moon not just celebrating the fall harvest but also the moon itself. Native American tribes named it the Big Moon or Corn Moon.

First, we’ll use the moonlight to guide us on a short hike on the Lemon Hill Rim Trail, appreciating nature lit by the glowing moon. Next, we’ll turn our attention to the moon itself. Novice and experienced astronomers alike will be given insights and tips by instructor Buddy Muhler. Each attendee will have the chance to travel close up to the moon’s surface by looking through Buddy’s high-powered telescope! Buddy will discuss the lunar cycles and point out interesting visible surface features such as dark gray mares (seas) and white reflective highlands. We’ll gaze at planets and discuss other astronomical wonders of the night sky.

If you’re a lunar lunatic, this is an evening not to miss!

Estimated distance: 2 miles
Level: easy to moderate
Terrain: combination of flat open parkland and hilly trails

INSTRUCTOR BIO: Buddy Muhler is a passionate astronomer and science educator. He has over 15 years of experience operating telescopes and educating the public on astronomy, first at The Franklin Institute and now in his current position with The Academy of Natural Sciences.

TICKET PRICES: Pay what you can – $10, $15, or $20
[ Not sure what to pay? Please refer to this Sliding Scale Pricing FAQ for additional info. ]

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

• This hike is roughly two miles in length over a combination of open parkland and hilly terrain (easy-moderate exertion).
• Appropriate for adults and families with children ages 6 and up. Minors must be registered and accompanied by an adult.
• Please dress according to weather conditions and wear good hiking shoes (boots/sneakers).
• Please bring your own water and snacks (drinking water is not available in the park).
• There are bathrooms (porta-potties) available at the beginning and end of the hike.
• Bring sunscreen and bug spray.
• We will leave a few minutes after the scheduled start time. Please arrive at the departure location at least five minutes early. We cannot guarantee that latecomers can join after the group has departed.
• Attendees are encouraged to bring their own telescopes or high-powered binoculars.
• Friendly dogs on leash are welcome.
• We will use moonlight whenever possible, but for portions of the trail, we recommend bringing a flashlight, headlamp, or fully charged smartphone.
• Feel free to bring blankets/lawn chairs for the telescope observation portion.

PARKING/GETTING THERE: There is plenty of free parking available in the park. As always, NEVER leave valuables in your car! If traveling by public transit, the nearest stations are at 31st and Girard Ave and Art Museum Drive (both are roughly a 1/2 mile walk away). The nearest Indego bike station is at 31st and Girard (roughly a 1/2 mile away).

QUESTIONS? Please reach out to programs@myphillypark.org