Name: Explore the Night Sky
Start: 2026-01-24T19:00:00-06:00
End: 2026-01-24T20:30:00-06:00
Location: Government Canyon State Natural Area

Take a tour of the winter night sky with an amateur astronomer.
About this Event

You don't need an expensive telescope to enjoy stargazing (though we'll bring one you can try out, too)! Gaze at the moon, view real-time deep sky objects, and discover some tools you can use to explore astronomy in your own backyard.

*This event will still meet if the skies are cloudy. We will provide an outdoor planetarium program and practice with a free phone app instead. Rain may cause a cancellation, however.

**Before you arrive, please download, install and try out the free Stellarium mobile astronomy app. This is available on the Apple App Store, Google Play for Android, or the website stellarium-web.org. We will show participants how to use it to find their way around the night sky. Don't wait until you arrive to download the app; our cell service within the Natural Area is spotty.

Who Is Invited

Ages 10 and up. Minors must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. No pets, please.

If ADA assistance is required, please request modifications using this form, or email [email protected] at least 2 weeks in advance.

Registration, Fees & Day Passes

Registration is required. Registration opens on Saturday two weeks prior to the event and closes at noon the Thursday before the event.

Though the activity is free, all Natural Area entry fees apply. We often fill to capacity. To ensure entrance and save time at the Fee Booth please pre-purchase and PRINT OUT a Day Pass . Day passes can be reserved beginning one month before the date of your visit.

Please note: Purchasing a day pass does NOT guarantee a spot for this event.

This is a public program intended for individuals or families. If you would like to bring a group (Scouts, home school group, etc.) for a program at Government Canyon, please contact the Park Interpreter at [email protected] to schedule at a different time.

When & Where to Meet

This activity meets at the Amphitheater, near the Frontcountry Trailhead. Lot C will be the closest parking. There is a gravel path leading from the parking lot to the amphitheater, a distance of about 120'. The amphitheater is near an accessible restroom.

What to Wear & Bring

Seating is on limestone benches. A blanket, portable chair, or stadium seat is suggested to make sitting more comfortable.

Dress for time outdoors, in layers that can be added or removed as the night cools off. Comfortable shoes and warm layers are recommended. Bring at least 32 oz of water per person.

Cancellations

This program is weather-dependent and subject to cancellation. Check trail conditions by calling GCSNA’s main office at 210-688-9055, or visit one of the GCSNA social media pages listed below.