Valentine's Merritt Reservoir designated International Dark Sky Park

[Stargazer]

Kind of old news for those of us to which it's near and dear..

Merritt Reservoir south of Valentine was named the 200th International Dark Sky Park in the world.

This is not an easy designation to obtain, took diligent efforts by a number of people in Nebraska, including members of the Omaha Astronomical Society and representatives of Nebraska Game and Parks.

There was some controversy, in that the organization considering and designating these sites was ready to give the area a larger, International Dark Sky -Preserve- designation, covering WMA's surrounding the state park (only 17 designated 'preserve' in the WORLD).. but rumors were that area representatives were worried there'd be some kind of huge influx of visitors, which might disrupt other 'more important' hunting/fishing activities (which is ridiculous, just not that many astronomy enthusiasts).

https://darksky.org/news/merritt-reserv ... fied-idsp/

Sagittarius region from Snake River campground at Merritt

[almighty_tuna]

Old news or not, this is definitely good news. With any luck it'll get a "preserve" designation in the future. We're lucky to have that area nearby.

[Busguy2010]

I went there the third week of October last year. I went there partly for the purpose of stargazing, other part for fishing. It was amazing how clearly I could see the stars, and I could even see the milky way. I camped on the south end of the lake, and it was only me and one other group in the campground. Beautifully isolated and quiet outside of some boats coming in late and going out early. I plan to make it a regular thing to spend a week out there every year or two.

I would hate to go there when it's packed though, so I can see why there'd be a concern of attracting too many people.

[ChadJK]

Is that where they do the Nebraska Star Party?

[Busguy2010]

Is that where they do the Nebraska Star Party?

Yes.

Like I said, I wouldn't be interested in going during that. It's packed. The stars are great no matter when you go.

[ChadJK]

Is that where they do the Nebraska Star Party?

Yes.

Like I said, I wouldn't be interested in going during that. It's packed. The stars are great no matter when you go.

We went to Hyde Observatory in Lincoln a few weeks ago. It was neat, but with the almost full moon at the time and the late sunset this time of year it's hard to see a variety of stuff during public viewing. We also want to check out Branched Oak Observatory.

[Coyote]

Merritt Reservoir SRA:
International Dark Sky Park



Do you want a chance to truly appreciate the allure of night? Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area is the perfect location. Merritt was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2022 for its exceptional quality of starry nights and nocturnal environment. Every eight years, light pollution around the world doubles! Today, 8 out of 10 children will grow up never seeing the Milky Way. You can change those statistics by visiting Merritt and doing your part to combat light pollution in your home.