STARS OVER THE WICHITAS

Additional Information

STARS OVER THE WICHITAS INTERPRETIVE PROGRAM OFFERED

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is inviting the general public to join us for an evening with the stars. The refuge will be conducting "Stars over the Wichitas" interpretive programs  on  June 3 & 4, 2011.  Visitors will study major constellations and other heavenly bodies.  Bring your own optics, or view the night skies through a 13” Dobsonian telescope.

Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis by telephoning the Visitor Center beginning Monday, May 30^th, between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Star-gazing is enhanced at the Refuge because of its lack of major light pollution.  An interpreter for the Friends of the Wichitas will discuss the history of astronomy, its practical uses and goals, and will help visitors identify images found in the night sky.

Programs are limited to 15 participants each to assure every visitor has the opportunity to observe several objects through the telescope.  There will be a $5.00 per person reservation fee collected at the time of check-in.  Due to the length of the program all participants must be at least eight years of age.

The two-hour program begins 30 minutes after sunset.  Participants will meet at the Boulder/Lost Lake picnic area entrance gate.  The gate may be located by traveling approximately one and one-half miles west of Camp Doris, then turning left onto the road leading to the Boulder/Lost Lake picnic areas.  Visitors may obtain a Refuge leaflet/map from dispensers located at each of the five entrances.  Binoculars and a lawn chair are recommended.  The program will be canceled if it is raining or if the sky is overcast.

The Refuge's public interpretive program is intended for individuals and family units of six persons or less.  Only one family's reservation will be accepted per telephone call.  We regret we cannot offer group tours.  Reservations must be made by telephoning the Refuge Visitor Center on the following line only: (580) 429-2151, beginning Monday, May 30, 2011.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.