Star party coming to Santa Monica Mountains NRA in California/NPS

Stars, from the skies above, not Hollywood, will be celebrated on August 2 at Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in California.

The NRA's Summer Star Festival is scheduled to run from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Paramount Ranch in Agoura. The free event will feature star-gazing, constellation tours, music and children's activities.

"We share a dark sky oasis with those who want to escape the glow of city lights," said NRA Ranger Robert Cromwell. "We invite the public to come out and view the Milky Way galaxy in all of its splendor!"

The free event will begin with the Santa Monica Mountains Ranger Band playing astronomy-themed rock music, followed by a family-friendly lecture by Cal Lutheran University Professor Mike Shaw, and a constellation tour by Hal Jandorf, president of the Ventura County Astronomical Society.

From 8:45 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., visitors are invited to view the crescent moon, Saturn, Mars and other objects in the Milky Way Galaxy through high-powered telescopes. There will also be family-friendly astronomical activities and the opportunity to learn about nocturnal animals.

Astronomy enthusiasts are encouraged to bring their own telescopes, if available, as well as flashlights and warm clothing.

Paramount Ranch is located at 2903 Cornell Road in Agoura Hills. In the event of rain, the program will be cancelled. For more information, call 805-370-2301.