The stars may be light-years away, but you can get a close-up peek at them on three summer Saturday nights right here in St. Louis- June 23, July 21, and August 25.  Head to Gateway Arch National Park for a special stargazing experience. Meet in the Education Classroom inside the new West Entrance of the Gateway Arch at 8 p.m. for three twilight ranger-led interpretive talks.  Weather permitting, guests can view craters on the Moon, the planet Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn and other celestial objects via telescopes outside, led by volunteers from the St. Louis Astronomical Society until 10 p.m.  The talks inside will take place regardless of the weather.  The telescope viewing may be cancelled if skies are cloudy.  Call 314-655-1708 the afternoon of the event for an update on the weather, and to reserve your children’s places for the August 25 event.

NASA fellow and Washington University scientist Michael Bouchard will present a talk about St. Louis’ role in the past, current, and future Mars rovers and exploration.  This program will be held in the Education Classroom inside the Arch West Entrance, rain or shine.  It will be followed by telescope viewing outside, weather permitting.