Bays Mountain Astronomy Club hosts 40th StarFest Convention

The Bays Mountain Astronomy Club and Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium is excited to announce registration is now open for its 40th annual StarFest convention – scheduled for November 7-9.

For four decades, StarFest has been a gathering place for amateur and professional astronomers, hobbyists, and families who enjoy the science and wonder of the night sky.

This year’s theme, “Sharing the Sky,” highlights the many ways people can connect to the cosmos. Each of the event’s four keynote speakers brings their own unique and creative approach—through artistic mediums, performance storytelling, tactile explorations, and astrophotography—to share their passion for the stars.

“StarFest has been an enjoyable, educational and engaging star party for 40 years,” said StarFest and Astronomy Club Chairman Greg Penner. “This anniversary year promises to be especially meaningful, as we celebrate both the history of the event and the many creative ways people are sharing their love of the night sky.”

This year’s guest speakers include:

–Jackie Baughman – Planetarium and Education Program Manager at the Challenger Learning Center of Lockport, New York

–Mike Francis – educator and actor who has been bringing astronomy to schools, libraries and museums for more than 30 years

–Noreen Grice – an award-winning astronomy educator and author who teaches at Western Connecticut State University

–Richard Wright – a contributing editor for Sky & Telescope magazine, specializing in astrophotography and equipment reviews

Registration includes attendance to all of the event’s speakers and activities, five fabulous meals, door prizes, telescope viewing and a custom-art zip-up hoodie. Registration with payment must be received by October 19.

For all the details and to register, please visit https://bit.ly/4gzjxmv. You can also click on the CivicRec link in the Connect Kingsport app or go to www.kingsporttn.gov and click on the “CivicRec” link, then search for “starfest” in the search bar.

Special Note – Due to a planned water maintenance project, the water will be turned off at the park during StarFest. Several portable toilets and hand washing stations will be available around the parking areas.

This event is hosted by the Bays Mountain Astronomy Club and the Bays Mountain Park Association.

For more information, please visit www.baysmountain.com.