Pack up your binoculars or a telescope and experience the night sky at Point Pelee National Park like never before.
The park will be hosting the last Dark Sky Nights of 2023 tonight, and all are welcome to attend.
Point Pelee National Park was designated as a Dark Sky Preserve by the Windsor Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada in 2006, meaning it is one of the best locations to explore the night sky in Canada.
The park is committed to protecting the night-time environment from the effects of artificial lighting and educating visitors about the ecological and cultural importance of dark skies.
Speaking on AM800's Live and Local with Kyle Horner, Sarah Rupert, Promotion Officer for Parks Canada, says it will be a great evening.
"This time of year there is a small meteor shower, you might get to see some shooting stars. And what's also really nice especially, I really like the winter, being out in the park in the winter when you get a nice crisp night."
She says it's a very different, unique experience.
"So when visitors arrive at the gate, just ask the gate attendant, they'll have a Night Sky chart so it'll help you orient yourself and know what stars you're seeing. And then they'll also be able to direct you to where the Royal Astronomical Society is set up. They have their big telescope that they bring out and they'll be able to tell you even more about what you're seeing."
Rupert says there are a few great spots to set up for the evening.
"The Visitor Centre is a great one because it has a lot of open sky that you can see there. Also West Beach can be a great spot to go, and since we haven't had any snow yet the DeLaurier parking lot is also open, and that's also another great spot with a lot of open sky."
Protecting the dark sky of Pont Pelee is beneficial to wildlife as any plants, animals and insects rely on the darkness of the night to forage, breed and navigate.
Visitors can pick up a seasonal star chart at the front gate upon arrival, and the park will be open until midnight.
The next Dark Sky Nights event will be held on January 6, 2024.
-with files from AM800's Live and Local with Kyle Horner