By Kelli Nesbitt, Parks & Recreation Marketing Coordinator
Have you ever gazed up at the night sky and wondered about the constellations and whether you are looking at a planet, moon or star? All that intergalactic information can easily get lost in space.
Maybe you are looking for something out of this world to do on a Friday night while also learning more about the sky above you.
Enter the fifth annual Nature Center Star Party on Friday, March 6, from 7-9:30 p.m. at the Gary Halter Nature Center. The free, family-friendly, come-and-go event features space-themed booths, hands-on activities, and guided stargazing designed to make astronomy accessible and engaging.
Here’s a deeper look:
- Look through high-powered telescopes provided by the Brazos Valley Astronomy Club and learn how to identify planets, stars and other objects visible in the post oak savannah sky.
- Meet local experts from the Brazos Valley Master Naturalist Chapter, Bat Conservation International and the Rio Brazos Audubon Society and discover which nocturnal wildlife call the park home.
- Explore the Lights Out Nights initiative and the Bird City Texas College Station program and see how reducing light pollution helps protect birds and other night-migrating wildlife that rely on the stars.
- Check in to receive an Explorer Passport and earn prizes while moving through each learning station.
- Watch demonstrations comparing effective lighting and excessive lighting and pick up simple tips to reduce light pollution at home.
- Stop by the kids’ corner for space-themed books, sensory bins, coloring pages and hands-on activities.
- Play interactive games such as a constellation spinning wheel, meteor shower toss and creatures of the night sound matching.
- Practice navigating the stars using a compass.
- Listen to a star-themed story and explore the myths and legends connected to constellations and celestial bodies.
Galaxy-themed snacks and beverages will be available while supplies last. Additional parking is available at the Lick Creek equestrian entrance off Rock Prairie Road.
For more information, visit cstx.gov/GaryHalter or call 979-764-6216.
About the Blogger
Kelli Nesbitt has served the Parks & Recreation Department for 19 years, including 12 years as marketing coordinator. She also served 1.5 years as the marketing and community engagement specialist for the City of Bryan from 2023-25. A Bryan native, Nesbitt earned a bachelor’s degree in health and kinesiology from Sam Houston State.
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