- What better place to see the stars than our own backyard? Joshua Tree National Park spokesman George Land says there are several good viewing areas that are not closed off at night, such as Cap Rock, Boy Scout Trail parking area and Hemingway parking area. Cap Rock is located at the junction of Park Boulevard and Keys Views Road; the Boy Scout Trail parking area is located at the south end of the trail inside the west entrance; and the Hemingway parking area can be found just under 2 miles past the Quail Springs lot when driving from the west entrance.
- Other spots are Jumbo Rocks and White Tank campgrounds, recommended by Sky Watcher Stargazing Tours Sky Guide Bill Kronsted, because “you are getting farther away from the lower desert light.” Kronsted says to bring a nice lounge chair, binoculars and drinks. “The best is just to relax and key your eyes to the sky to catch satellites or falling stars,” says the guide, who offers private and group tours.
- A couple dates to put on your calendar: July 27-28 for the Delta Aquariids meteor shower, August 12-13 when the Perseid meteor showers are expected to peak, and August 21 for the total solar eclipse.
- Source: The Desert Sun/Desert Magazine