Viewing the stars in Lake Tahoe can be a regular thing this summer, thanks to Tahoe Star Tours.
Inspired by the growing popularity of the annual summer star gazing series in the Northern Sierra, Tahoe Star Tours will move its viewing venue to the new Dark Skies Cosmoarium at Northstar California Resort in Truckee this summer.
The event series schedule is also expanding to accommodate those who want to learn about and experience the night sky Thursday through Saturday evenings from June 12 through September 27, with a special Meteor Shower viewing event scheduled to kick the season off on Friday, May 23.
“We’re excited to move Tahoe Star Tours to our new viewing venue and open the Dark Skies Cosmoarium at Northstar this summer,” said Tony Berendsen, owner of Tahoe Star Tours and president of the Northern Nevada Science Coalition. “This change in venue will not only be easy for guests of all ages to access, it features unobstructed vistas that offer incredible perspective of the night sky.”
The Cosmoarium will be located near the entrance to Northstar on the lower level of the Castle Peak parking area, offering convenient access for guest lodging for visitors of the resort.
The new location features wide, unobstructed horizons for viewing and provides Tahoe Star Tours participants with comfortable seating, fire pits, outdoor heaters, complimentary shuttle service to and from the Village at Northstar, as well as convenient, free on-site parking just a short walk from the viewing area.
Every tour features an informative Star Tour Astronomy presentation by Berendsen, laser tour of the starry sky, telescopic observation with state-of-the-art Celestron Telescopes, complimentary hot chocolate, coffee and s’mores.
Tahoe Star Tours events are $30 for adults, and $15 for children ages 12 and under. Tours begin at 8:15 p.m. and conclude at 10:30 p.m. Event details and ticket information for all tours taking place at Northstar California Resort can be found online at www.NorthstarCalifornia.com.
A series of special star gazing events will also be offered on select dates this summer, including Concert Star Tours featuring Accent string quartet on Friday, June 27, Saturday, July 19 and Saturday, August 16.
These three events will feature live performances at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, followed by star gazing opportunities at mid-mountain at Northstar. Tickets are available for $75 per person, $50 for 18 and under.
Tahoe Star Tours will also pay tribute to Carl Sagan on Saturday, August 30 with an extended event at the Dark Skies Cosmoarium at Northstar California Resort featuring astrophysicist Dr. Alex Filippenko, and a panel discussion with local scientists.
For those seeking a bit of adventure, Berendsen will partner with Tahoe Adventure Company to offer aunique opportunity to experience Lake Tahoe at sunset with a guided kayak tour, followed by an illuminating star gazing session.
These events will include all kayak gear and knowledgeable guides, hot drinks and snacks, and can be booked online at www.tahoeadventurecompany.com for $75 per person.
Advance reservations for all Tahoe Star Tours events are recommended, and all tours are offered weather and conditions permitting. For more information and the complete schedule of events, visit www.TahoeStarTours.com.
