This exciting, new planetarium program transports viewers to Chile where the dark skies and dry, remote setting create ideal conditions for observing the Universe. Journey to three world-class observatories in Chile’s rugged Andes Mountains and arid Atacama Desert— remote, extreme regions that happen to have the perfect conditions for astronomical research. Against a backdrop of breathtaking visuals and a hypnotic soundtrack, Big Astronomy introduces the diverse people who push the limits of technology, enable scientific discovery and expand what we know about the Universe using state-of-the-art telescopes. Along the way, you’ll meet an inspiring cast of astronomers, engineers, technicians, and support staff who keep these mega-machines running.
Show length ~26 min.
This program will feature a unique look at the night sky from south of the equator utilizing our Zeiss ZKP4 star projector.

Learn to weave your own Viking Chain and leave with a completed necklace, bracelet, or anklet!

*This is a TWO-SESSION workshop: September 9th, 6-8 pm, and September 16th, 6-8 pm. You must be there both days!*
Learn to weave your own Viking Chain and leave with a completed necklace, bracelet, or anklet! While this may look like a complicated project, it’s merely a matter of looping around a dowel rod and then stretching it out; if you’re not sure what that means, then come find out!
Linore will guide everyone through the process of starting their weaving during the first session. Students will have a week to make their weaving longer, and then will finish weaving and complete their necklace, bracelet, or anklet during the second session.
Students will also receive an instructional packet in case they fall in love with the process and want to continue on their own!
Age 12+ (under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult).
There are two ticket prices: one for using copper, and one for using sterling silver. All materials and tools are included in the ticket price.

Shown below:
Viking Wire Weaving using sterling silver–we will not be using beads in this workshop, although we will talk about how they can be used in the future! This is a more advanced technique, and is tricky for beginners.
If you have taken this workshop before, however, you may try using beads!

Local artist Linore Huss has always been adventurous and creative. From general arts and folk dance to fiber and jewelry to ceramics and metalsmithing, Linore loves to explore new mediums, and the world around her is always an opportunity to find new shapes and textures. She encourages her students to show creativity in every process, and loves when they teach her something new as they come in with open eyes and minds.
Linore graduated with a BFA in Metalsmithing and Ceramics in 2018 and has since spent time as the Head of Metals and Glass at Camp Matoaka in Maine, Metals Studio Assistant at Arrowmont, and a ceramics and jewelry teacher for kids and adults in the Tri-Cities area.

Autumn is a perfect time of year to see the changing of the seasons in the outdoors, but planning for a camping or backpacking trip can seem overwhelming with the variety of options one can find. This Fall, Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium is offering a two-part program on all the essentials needed for just about any backpacking adventure you go on! Whether you are new to the idea and want advice or have camped outside before, this in depth workshop will make sure you know what to bring and what can be left at home while out in the wilderness. The first program goes over the basics of backpacking for those who are building their knowledge or gear. Later in the month, participants will have the opportunity to practice their knowledge on an overnight backpacking trip on park property where you will be guided by a ranger down to the park’s primitive camp site and spend a night under the stars.

The one-day class will be held on Tuesday, September 9th from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

You may also sign up for the overnight backpacking trip on Saturday, September 13th through Sunday, September 14th. The hike will start at the mountain bike parking area at 3:00 p.m. and hikers can plan to be back on Sunday by 12:00 p.m. Participants who attend the class are not required to go on the trip, though we do ask anyone who would like to go on the backpacking trip to first attend the class. This is a separate registration, you need to register for the “CLASS AND OVERNIGHT” if you wish to participate in both.

All participants attending the overnight stay will need to bring their own equipment, including food. Wood will be available for fire building. Camping by tent is advised, as hammock locations are extremely limited.

If you have any further questions about the class or trip, please reach out to the park by calling 423-229-9447 or contacting Ranger Laura Ellis at 423-343-9727 or email at LauraEllis@Kingsporttn.gov.

Registration is required and costs $5 per person for the class, and $15 per person for both the class and overnight trip. Registration is limited to 10 participants for the overnight trip. Those with young children should reach out to Ranger Laura prior to registering.