Centennial celebrations for Idaho Craters of the Moon wrap up with “night sky” activities • Idaho Capital Sun

September is the last month to celebrate 100 years of the establishment of the Craters of the Moon Monument and National Reserve.

Beginning in May, National Park Service staff organized monthly activities and events to celebrate the centennial of the proclamation by President Calvin Coolidge, who established the preserve to protect its unique lava landscape.

Visitors can participate in events related to this month’s theme, “Expansive Night Sky.”

This month’s event dates include:

September 6 and 7: Visitors can see the Milky Way during a free star party led by the park’s “Astro Ranger” and other volunteer astronomers. Craters of the Moon is a certificate Dark Sky International Park, making it one of the best places for stargazing. At this event, visitors will enjoy a talk about the park followed by telescope stargazing. Artist photographer in residence Evan Nelson will also be on site to show attendees how to take pictures of the night sky.

September 15: Visitors will take a Full Moon Tour through the park at night. Visitors should bring flashlights or headlamps for a ranger-led walk through the park under the moonlight to learn about its lunar connections. Artist photographer in residence Evan Nelson will also be on site to show attendees how to take pictures of the night sky.

September 28: Photographer Doug Owen will share ideas, methods and tips on how to take your nature photography to the next level.

To learn more about Craters of the Moon’s September events, visit National Park Service website.