Dark Sky Movement

Celebrate the wonder of the night sky in the Black Hills! 

Friday, September 10, 2021 at 5-10pm!

RSVP here

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Mickelson Star Trail Night hosted by:

South Dakota Chapter International Dark-Sky Association (IDA)

Speaker Program at Rochford Firestation at 5:00-8:00pm.

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5:00-5:40 pm Raptor Center Owls and Birds of Prey Demonstration

5:45-6:00 pm International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) Welcome

6:00-6:45 pm Bioluminescence Creatures Featuring Fireflies with Avalon Owens

7:00-7:45 pm Lakota Star Knowledge with Craig Howe

7:45-8:00 pm Overview of Star Party Viewing & Observation Etiquette

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8:00pm - 10:00pm Viewing Program: 

Night Sky Observations at Trailhead with NASA & IDA Volunteers

What’s in the Night Sky - NASA Solar System Ambassador & Black Hills Parks & Forest Association

Enjoy family-friendly activities, program, and presentations from a variety of professional educators and facilitators. Free and open to the public. We'll be gathered at the Fire Station near the Rochford Trailhead along the Mickelson Trail. 

We recommend bringing a camping chair for seating and cash for desired food or supply purchases.  Bring along a map and directions since cellular navigation will not work.  Cell signal is non-existent.  This will not involve a hike along the trail. Event will be at the trailhead. Restrooms available.Optional free will donation accepted via event brite registration link. All welcome.

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Event will be held despite weather conditions.  Rain or shine, cloudy or clear; event will not be cancelled due to weather.  

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Waiver of Liability and Assumption of Risk Agreement:

In consideration of attending the Mickelson Star Trail night, I for myself, my heirs, personal representative or assigns, do hereby release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue the organization, its volunteers or sponsors, it’s trustees, directors, officers, employees and agents from liability from any and all claims including negligence resulting in personal injury, accidents, or illnesses (including death) and property loss arising from use of premises. Assumption of Risk: Attending this event carries with it certain inherent risks that cannot be eliminated regardless of the care taken to avoid injuries. I have read the previous statements and I know and understand and appreciate these and other risks are inherent in the activity in which I am participating. I hereby assert that my participation is voluntary and that I knowingly assume all such risks. Indemnification and Hold Harmless: I also agree to indemnify and hold harmless IDA South Dakota INC, IDA, its trustees, directors, officers, employees and agents from any and all claims, actions, suits, costs, expenses, damages and liabilities including attorney fees as a result of this use of premises. Severability: The undersigned further expressly agrees that the forgoing waiver and assumption of risk agreement is intended to be as broad and inclusive as is permitted by the law of the State of South Dakota and that if any portion thereof is held invalid, it is agreed that the balance shall, notwithstanding, continue in full legal force and effect. I also know and understand Participation includes possible exposure to and illness from infectious diseases including but not limited to COVID-19. While particular rules and personal discipline may reduce this risk, the risk of serious illness and death does exist; IDA South Dakota, INC cannot guarantee that its participants, volunteers, partners, or others in attendance will not become infected with COVID-19.  Acknowledgement of Understanding: I have read this waiver of liability, assumption of risk, and indemnity agreement, and fully understand its terms. I acknowledge that I am signing the agreement freely and voluntarily, and intend by my registration or participation to the event to be a complete and unconditional release of all liability to the greatest extent allowed by law.

Event Sponsors

Without our event sponsors, this night of starry skies would not be possible. 

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Thank you.

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