You can expect exceptionally dark skies at the Nebraska Star Party.  This is a remote and very sparsely populated area having no more than handful of lights within miles of the viewing area.  The nearest town (Valentine, population 3000) is 35 miles to the northeast or 45 minutes by car. Mullen, population 200, is 50 miles to the south.  The 3,100 foot altitude, and the fact that the Sandhills are a dry, sandy, upland plateau, help keep the haze low and the transparency high.

Reactions to NSP have been very favorable.  Many people have commented that the NSP’s skies are on par with Fort Davis’ and the Texas Star Party.  Veteran observers were astounded by the brightness of the Summer Milky Way, by seeing many Messier objects with the unaided eye, and by watching faint stars rise on the horizon.  For some, the grandest impression was just looking at the central bulge of the Milky Way.  It’s impossible to view without realizing that you’re seeing a spiral galaxy at close range – an impression that is not achievable from suburban, and even most rural, dark sites.

Only primitive camping is available at the observing site.  Merritt Trading Post, about 10 minutes’ drive north of the observing field on Highway 97, has groceries and a wide range of necessities for the sportsman and camper, in addition to public showers and coin operated public laundry facilities.  In addition, electric hookups and coin operated shower facilities are available at the Cedar Bay Campground on the east side of the lake along Highway 97.

The city of Valentine, seat of Cherry County, is approximately 35 miles north of the observing field on Highway 97.  This will afford attendees access to grocery stores, shopping, and free Wi-Fi access to the city’s network at many locations throughout the town.  Check Visit Valentine for more information.