Dark Sky
This past weekend I was able to spend time with my bestie and her husband at their cabin in Door County, Wisconsin. When we planned activities for the weekend, hands down, we wanted to make sure to add Newport State Park which is on the tip of the Door Peninsula to our must do list. Newport State Park has been internationally recognized as a dark sky location (one of 48 from around the world).
According to Darksky.org, “An IDA International Dark Sky Park (IDSP) is a land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment.”
One of the nights looked like it would be perfect viewing weather. In addition to the dark sky, it was mentioned that the conditions would also be good to see the northern lights as well. Holy cow…..a twofer! Diane and I stopped by earlier in the day to scope out the best location. Well……at 3:00 pm, cars were already piling in and setting up for the big show that wouldn’t take place for hours. Hmmm…..we thought it might be an issue since we had sunset dinner reservations.
After dinner we headed to the one of the biggest designated viewing sites and upon arrival cars were lined up for as far as the eye could see. Plus, everyone’s headlights were on……not ideal for star-gazing. We ended up having to turn around to head back to the cabin. Larry, Diane’s husband stated it would be just as dark in the open meadow near their place.
We drove down the gravel road that led to the open meadow, but decided it would be best to come back either on foot or take the golf cart. After grabbing blankets, chairs, flashlights, the golf-cart and their dog, we all piled on the 2-man cart. It was hilarious! The dog kept jumping off the side because we were laughing, and causing chaos. Mine and Larry’s rear ends were hanging off on either side and Diane was squished in the middle, half on both our legs. Larry couldn’t get his foot on the gas peddle and I was trying to hold the flashlight around Diane to light the path, while one of my legs were perched on the front frame to keep the dog from jumping out.
Going downhill was fine, albeit slow and steady, but Diane had Larry stop to reposition right before we reached the bottom, and we lost our momentum for the uphill climb. Slowly the cart chugged it’s way up to the top of the hill, all while we hung on for dear life…..haha. Once at the top, and flashlights were off, our eyes adjusted to see the spectacular dark sky. There were thousands of stars along with the Milky Way draped across the sky in smoky ribbons. We took turns witnessing shooting stars streak across the sky in a brief and beautiful show. The air was chilly, crisp and clean. Underneath the canopy of stars felt like we were in the middle of God’s amazing creation.
Even though the night sky was absolutely spectacular, we never witnessed any colors from the northern lights. We don’t realize how many miracles are around us at all times. It’s worth it to stop, pay attention, and breathe them in. The dark sky twinkling in all its glory was magnificent and made me appreciate the beauty of the universe. Star gazing is a gift for you and me.
xoxox….Sheryl