Tahoe Star Tours will expand its summer schedule in bringing its popular stargazing events back to scenic Northstar California ski resort in Lake Tahoe.
Northstar California will showcase the Dark Skies Cosmoarium for docent-led stargazing events that will take place on select dates between June and September.
Led by amateur astronomer and poet Tony Berendsen, past president of the Northern Nevada Science Coalition, each Tahoe Star Tours evening includes a lively science-based talk about the cosmos and telescopic viewing of the constellations through high-powered, professional Celestron telescopes.
The telescopes use leading edge computerized technology for accurate pointing and tracking, with advanced optics for sharp, crisp views of distant celestial objects like galaxies and nebulae. Telescope operators guide guests through the wonders of the cosmos including viewing of the planets, moon and stars.
Berendsen, an award-winning amateur astronomer residing in Reno, has produced astronomy events in the Lake Tahoe region for more than 20 years. Advance reservations for all Tahoe Star Tours events are recommended, and all tours are offered weather and conditions permitting.
“Northstar has been a longtime partner of Tahoe Star Tours. I couldn’t be more excited to be coming back for another season,” Berendsen said. “The Cosmoarium offers wide, unobstructed views of the night sky, and the Northstar team’s hospitality – including fire pits and s’mores – makes these events stand out as a memorable summer experience in North Lake Tahoe.”
Tahoe Star Tours events planned will take place at Northstar on June 24-29, July 8-13-22-27, August 5-10-19-24, and conclude on Sept. 2 with the annual tribute to Carl Sagan. Docent-led stargazing tours will also take place at the new Spooner Lake Visitor Center on select Thursdays and Saturdays, beginning in June and running through Labor Day weekend.
Tahoe Star Tours events cost $45 for adults and $25 for children ages 12-under (age 3-under are free). Advance reservations are required. Tours begin at 8:15 p.m. and conclude at 10:30 p.m. Discounts are offered to Vail Resorts Epic pass holders, active-duty military and seniors 65-plus. Leashed dogs, who are well-behaved, are also welcome.
In addition to stargazing through computerized Celestron telescopes, guests will have the option to participate in a binocular tour using a pair of Celestron binoculars. This element of the tour is available for an additional $10 per person and is open to the first 10 people to reserve in advance.
Tahoe Star Tours also offers private group events by advance reservation. Learn more and reserve tickets at www.tahoestartours.com.
