We at Masiello Employment always enjoy stargazing, especially this time of year when it can be a pleasure to linger outside well after the sun goes down. It’s always awe-inspiring – and a bit humbling – to look up at the night sky and see a twinkling blanket of stars. Yet, because of more pronounced light pollution (a brightening of the night sky caused by streetlights and other human-made sources), it’s getting harder and harder to find places dark enough at night to see the constellations in their full glory.
Lucky for us, there are some destinations in New Hampshire remote enough to keep ambient light to a minimum where the stars can be seen on full display. Here are a few favorite places across the Granite State to best witness a sky full of evening stars.
Locally, just northeast of the city of Keene, we have the Sullivan Observatory. Owned and operated by the Keene Amateur Astronomers Club, the observatory is open to the community for viewing the night sky. They also provide educational programs for local public schools, libraries, and colleges. Check out their calendar for the next observing night here: http://www.keeneastronomy.org/calendar.html
Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, NH: A unique example of Arts and Crafts architecture in New England, the Lucknow mansion is now known as Castle in the Clouds, a terrific place to visit during the day to step into the past and enjoy superb panoramic views of NH’s Lakes Region. After the sun sets, however, it’s more like Castle in the Constellations, with gorgeous glimpses of the night style. This summer, the Castle is hosting Stargazing with the NH Astronomical Society on August 7, 2019 – listen to experts and learn about stars and planets, then use a telescope and view them for yourself.
AMC Highland Center Lodge, Bretton Woods, NH: The Appalachian Mountain Club hosts many star-centered events and activities. Weather-permitting, participate in an astronomy program, join an Astronomy Guide on a free guided walk, or take a look through a high-powered telescope at one of the backcountry huts. On August 11, 2019 – the predicted peak date of the Perseid Meteor Shower – AMC is hosting a viewing party at the Highland Center.
Shattuck Observatory, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH: Dartmouth College offers one of the top astronomy programs in the east. At certain times of the year, the public is invited to join viewing sessions, under cloudless skies, through the college’s North Telescope.
McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, Concord, NH: During daylight hours, you can get inspired by the beauty of space – and you can get inspired by the courage of space travel – at the center’s planetarium.
Mount Washington, NH: The peak of Mount Washington, at more than 6,000 feet, is as close as you’ll get to the stars in New Hampshire – and in the Northeast. Hike, drive or take the cog to the summit, where you’ll enjoy stellar nighttime views of what’s above and beyond. The Star Party Astronomy Workshop on August 6, 2019, is an educational, fun outing, requiring warm layers, a flashlight, and a sense of wonder.
We at Masiello Employment are the North Star on your search for the perfect job – a dependable beacon of light and encouragement. Give us a call today; our recruiting team is available for a free consultation.