September 2019
“Welcome to the Milky Way” with Richard Luecke
An estimated 75% of the world’s people can no longer see the Milky Way Galaxy from their homes because of urban light pollution. But here in Acadia, it shines brightly, with the collective glow of its 200+ billion stars arching from horizon to horizon. Astronomy volunteer Richard Luecke will explain our current understanding of the Milky Way, our place in it, how its vastness is measured, and how you can view and appreciate the galaxy’s splendor on any clear dark…
Find out more »“Find Your Way in the Night Sky” with Bob Reichman
If the Big Dipper and Orion's belt are the only things you can find in the night sky, come take this tour that will help you identify over 20 stars, constellations, and brighter asterisms. All families will receive a planisphere (star wheel) project to complete at home that will help to identify stars and constellations year-round from your own backyard.
Find out more »“Read the Night Sky” with Linda Penkalski
Do you want to learn how to “read the night sky”? Join us at Schoodic Institute in Winter Harbor for a night of sky exploration! Retired science teacher, former park ranger, and night sky enthusiast, Linda Penkalski will teach you how to read a sky chart and about the many resources available to continue your sky observations. After the classroom session, we will go outside to view the late summer skies in Eastern Maine. Mars, Saturn, and Jupiter are visible…
Find out more »“Celebration of the Sun” with Astronomy Volunteers
Join amateur astronomers and Acadia National Park rangers for safe solar viewing through a variety of specially-equipped telescopes. Weather dependent. Check our Facebook page for information on cancellations due to weather.
Find out more »“Meet the Telescopes” with the Astronomy Volunteers
Learn about different types of telescopes and the advantages of each design. Acadia Astronomy Volunteers will be available to introduce you to the scopes. Weather dependent. Check our Facebook page for information on cancellations due to weather.
Find out more »“Howling at the Moon” with Jan Hoey
Howling at the Moon: Our Moon in Science, Culture, and Myth Earth’s moon has exerted a major influence for the past 4 billion years—from oceans to the origins of life, from climate to calendars, from love to lunacy.
Find out more »Starry Night Paint and Sip
Come and create your own Starry Night. Step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process as you create your own version of van Gogh's masterpiece. All supplies and canvases provided. All ages welcome. Sign up on ArtWaves website. ArtWaves Members: use code AW10 at checkout for your member discount.
Find out more »“One Small Step” with Bob Reichman
In addition to sharing photos from the vast library of Apollo images that chronicle NASA's greatest saga, we'll role-play Earth and Moon motions to get a better understanding of orbits, phases, tides, eclipses, the gravitational dance with our Solar System neighbors, and more. Alert for Friday night's talk and Star Party as part of the Acadia Night Sky Festival: Gates will open at 6:30 p.m. Parking is limited so please carpool as much as possible. Please DO NOT PARK ALONG…
Find out more »Celebration of the Sun with Astronomy Volunteers in the Park
Join regional amateur astronomers and Acadia National Park rangers for safe solar viewing through a variety of specially equipped telescopes. In addition to optical telescopes, this year there will be a demonstration of solar radio astronomy equipment. In the event of rain, demonstrations of safe solar viewing equipment will happen indoors.
Find out more »“The Great Celestial Bear: Ursa Major in Science, Culture, and Myth” with Jan Hoey
Learn more about the constellation Ursa Major, which includes the Big Dipper, and why it has been portrayed as a great bear by civilizations across the northern hemisphere.
Find out more »“It’s a Big Universe. Where Do We Fit In?” with Richard Luecke
Since ancient times, people have looked to the sun, the moon, the planets and the stars trying to answer these questions: “How big is the cosmos?” and “Where do we fit in?” Astronomy volunteer Richard Luecke will explain how people have answered those questions, and how their answers have changed over the centuries (and continue to change as technology and scientific inquiry improve our perceptions of the cosmos). So come along on an image-enhanced journey from our familiar solar system,…
Find out more »September 2021
Mapping the Heavens with Lori Tremblay
A free evening lecture with artist Lori Tremblay as she walks us through the sky and some of her pieces which capture its delight. The artist will have pieces on display in the lobby of Moore Auditorium for viewing. The lecture, Mapping the Heavens, will begin at 7 PM. Viewing the night sky is one of life’s most awe inspiring sights! It evokes wonder, offers perspective on our place in the cosmos, ignites imagination enticing us to trace those bright…
Find out more »Bioluminescent & Star Gazing Paddle
Experience an unforgettable evening paddle in Castine Harbor's Bioluminescent Bay under a blanket of stars and in the midst of bioluminescent organisms of the water that swirl and light up with every stroke of your paddle! Fascinating! Castine's Harbor is Maine's own Bioluminescent Bay with a unique ecosystem that creates the perfect environment for these glow in the dark phytoplankton to survive and multiply. In our unique "Floating Planetarium" we'll explore the constellations of the stars of the night sky…
Find out more »Celestial Felting at ArtWaves
Using ArtWaves amazing array of dyed carded wool, and other embellishments you ‘paint’ with a barbed needle. Complete a piece ready to hang and the knowledge to continue needle felting as it is oh so satisfying to work with all the colors. We provide all materials with step by step instructions, to bring home a ready to hang piece. $35, ArtWaves members receive a $10 discount Register at artwavesmdi.org/Class-Calendars
Find out more »Toddlers Create at Artwaves
Toddlers Create! 10:00-11:00am Here’s a great way for children to be part of it all (since they are prone to sleeping when it’s dark). We offer young families a chance in our studio to paper mosaic a star, paint your own banner, and explore rich darks and brilliant lights through age-appropriate media! BYO snack for a bit of social time afterward. $20 family (members discount $10.) Register at artwavesmdi.org/Class-Calendars
Find out more »“Stars over Acadia” with Richard Luecke
As darkness falls, the Milky Way—our island home in the cosmos—arches across the sky from horizon to horizon. Astronomy volunteer Richard Luecke will take you on an image-enhanced journey along that river of starlight and the constellations that occupy it. Along the journey, you’ll see images of star clusters, nebulae, and other amazing objects that can be seen with binoculars, amateur telescopes—and some with the unaided eye. Presented by Acadia Master Astronomer Richard Luecke In-person attendance will be limited…
Find out more »“Our Place in Space” with Bob Reichman
Earth’s return address in the Universe wouldn’t easily fit on an envelope. You’ll leave this stellar conversation with a better appreciation for where we fit among the stars. Confirm your understanding about some of the big concepts of size and scale, phases, eclipse and tides, rotation vs revolution, astronomical units, light years and more! Presented by Acadia Master Astronomer Bob Reichman In-person attendance will be limited to allow for social distancing. The presentation will also be streamed live at…
Find out more »“Killer Asteroid Impacts—Should We Worry?” with Richard Luecke
Asteroids are stone or metal leftovers from the early formation of the solar system. Over the 4+ billion-year history of our planet, many have slammed into the earth at speeds exceeding 30,000 miles per hour. Their explosive impacts have shaped Earth's history. The asteroid that struck southeastern Mexico 66 million years ago is believed to have caused the extinction of 75% of all living species. Many smaller strikes have been recorded in modern times. Amateur astronomer Richard Luecke will summarize…
Find out more »Night Sky Mosaics Art Class at ArtWaves
Come create in the ancient art of mosaics using stained glass inspired by the night sky! All skill levels are invited to put your own contemporary twist on this easy-to-learn unique medium. Learn to cut, fit, and grout a framed piece for your wall, table or window! $35 each, ArtWaves members receive a $10 discount Register at artwavesmdi.org/Class-Calendars
Find out more »Bioluminescent & Star Gazing Paddle
Experience an unforgettable evening paddle in Castine Harbor's Bioluminescent Bay under a blanket of stars and in the midst of bioluminescent organisms of the water that swirl and light up with every stroke of your paddle! Fascinating! Castine's Harbor is Maine's own Bioluminescent Bay with a unique ecosystem that creates the perfect environment for these glow in the dark phytoplankton to survive and multiply. In our unique "Floating Planetarium" we'll explore the constellations of the stars of the night sky…
Find out more »“Starry Night” Transcription at ArtWaves
Explore this iconic painting by replicating it. Here’s your chance to work in oil paint on canvas in our Fine Arts Studio. All materials included from aprons to Zinc white. $35, ArtWaves members receive a $10 discount Register at artwavesmdi.org/Class-Calendars
Find out more »Under the Night Sky with Acadia Artist-in-Residence
This will be a virtual event streaming live on the Acadia National Park Facebook page. To join the event, click here. Under the Night Sky presented by Imma Barrera, Acadia National Park Artist-in-Residence The Under The Night Sky presentation will highlight Imma’s current project to raise awareness about the importance of nature conservation efforts, in particular, protecting the night sky from light pollution. Preserving the night environment helps support human health and heritage and preserve wildlife habitats. Night photography…
Find out more »Stars Over Sand Beach
Join park rangers at Sand Beach to view and learn about Acadia's amazing night sky! Please dress warmly, bring something to lie on, and minimize flashlight use to preserve night vision. The program will occur whether it’s cloudy or clear. Use of stairs is required to access the beach viewing site. Social distancing requested during the program. No pets. Photo credit Will Greene Check our Facebook page for information on cancellations due to weather.
Find out more »October 2021
“The Sleep Revolution”: Biology of Light virtual lecture with Dr. Allan Pack
There is growing recognition of the importance of high-quality, adequate sleep for health. The timing of sleep is controlled by the circadian system which receives as its major input information about light. Light is an alerting signal and the ability to overcome the natural light/dark cycle contributes to inadequate sleep. This talk will review the basic biology of the sleep/circadian system, discuss the functions of sleep. The different types of sleep loss will be discussed as will their consequences. Common…
Find out more »“Finding Your Way in the Night Sky” with Bob Reichman
Are the Big Dipper and Orion’s Belt all you know in the night sky? How about all those other stars up there? Come learn how to find your way around the stars, to identify more than 20 constellations, asterisms and bright “anchor” stars. Share how-to's on using a star-wheel or smartphone apps to navigate and appreciate the heavens from your own backyard. No telescope needed! Presented by Acadia Master Astronomer Bob Reichman In-person attendance will be limited to allow…
Find out more »“In the Footsteps of Galileo” with Bob Reichman
Come watch Jupiter over many nights just as Galileo did in the early 1600’s. Following our virtual observation exercise of the Galilean moons, will you reach the same world-rocking conclusions that the great astronomer did? Jupiter and Saturn with his icy rings are out there tonight and every clear night for the coming months. Get thee to a telescope to see the two gas giants for yourself! We'll review "where" and "how." Presented by Acadia Master Astronomer Bob Reichman …
Find out more »Kids Stained Glass Mosaic at ArtWaves
Kids Stained Glass Mosaic - Morning Star or Moon Mirror Using our tempting piles of glass, a mirror on a wood panel and our step-by-step instructions you get to cut, fit and grout stained glass. So many ways to design your piece! Bring a snack and perhaps something you want to include in your mosaic, a special small stone or shell. All materials included. Ages 9 up $30 ArtWaves members receive a $10 discount Register at artwavesmdi.org/Class-Calendars
Find out more »Bioluminescent & Star Gazing Paddle
Experience an unforgettable evening paddle in Castine Harbor's Bioluminescent Bay under a blanket of stars and in the midst of bioluminescent organisms of the water that swirl and light up with every stroke of your paddle! Fascinating! Castine's Harbor is Maine's own Bioluminescent Bay with a unique ecosystem that creates the perfect environment for these glow in the dark phytoplankton to survive and multiply. In our unique "Floating Planetarium" we'll explore the constellations of the stars of the night sky…
Find out more »Celestial Cinema: Family Movie Night Under the Stars
Bring your family and spread a blanket under the stars for a viewing of a family-friendly film. Weather Dependent. Check our Facebook page for information on cancellations due to weather. The movie will start at dusk. Presented by the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce
Find out more »MonoPrinting the Stars at ArtWaves
Create gorgeous one of a kind prints with our brilliant inks! Gelatin printing is an easy medium to learn, we give step-by-step instructions to roll out and pull your print. Make a fabric banner, cards and a matted piece for framing. ArtWaves supplies it all in our studio. This is a great family workshop, brown bag dinner welcome. $35 each, ArtWaves members receive a $10 discount. Register at artwavesmdi.org/Class-Calendars
Find out more »Stars Over Sand Beach
Join park rangers at Sand Beach to view and learn about Acadia's amazing night sky! Please dress warmly, bring something to lie on, and minimize flashlight use to preserve night vision. The program will occur whether it’s cloudy or clear. Use of stairs is required to access the beach viewing site. Social distancing requested during the program. No Pets. Photo credit Will Greene
Find out more »Families Create the Night Sky at ArtWaves
Here’s a great way for children to be part of it all (since they are prone to sleeping when it’s dark). We offer young families a chance in our studio to paper mosaic a star, paint a banner, and explore rich darks and brilliant lights through unique age-appropriate media! BYO snack for a bit of social time afterward. $25 family (members discount $10.) Register at artwavesmdi.org/Class-Calendars
Find out more »Starry Night Mosaic at ArtWaves
Learn to cut, fit and design with ArtWaves amazing array of stained glass! It’s like coloring with glass. Mosaic your own version of this iconic painting or use a design of your choice. All supplies, tools, step-by-step instructions, and samples for inspiration make this one of our more popular make and take workshops. Not only do you take away a stunning piece for your wall, table, or window, but you will also have the skills and understanding of the media…
Find out more »Bioluminescent & Star Gazing Paddle
Experience an unforgettable evening paddle in Castine Harbor's Bioluminescent Bay under a blanket of stars and in the midst of bioluminescent organisms of the water that swirl and light up with every stroke of your paddle! Fascinating! Castine's Harbor is Maine's own Bioluminescent Bay with a unique ecosystem that creates the perfect environment for these glow in the dark phytoplankton to survive and multiply. In our unique "Floating Planetarium" we'll explore the constellations of the stars of the night sky…
Find out more »Watercolor Painting the Night Sky at ArtWaves
In this workshop, students will be given the opportunity to learn and experiment with watercolor painting. Students will learn to use resist methods, splatter techniques, wet on wet, and other fun techniques to create texture and life in their paintings. Think galactic skies sprinkled with the sparkle of stars and constellations! Students will be encouraged to play with what is often a very structured paint, yet is extremely versatile and loose when it comes to creating wild and abstract skies.…
Find out more »Stars Over Sand Beach
Join park rangers at Sand Beach to view and learn about Acadia's amazing night sky! Please dress warmly, bring something to lie on, and minimize flashlight use to preserve night vision. The program will occur whether it’s cloudy or clear. Use of stairs is required to access the beach viewing site. Social distancing requested during the program. No pets. Photo credit Will Greene
Find out more »Celestial Felting at ArtWaves
Here’s where you ‘paint’ with a barbed needle using an amazing array of dyed carded wool and other embellishments. Complete a piece ready to hang and the knowledge to continue needle felting as it is oh so satisfying to work with all the colors. We provide all materials with step-by-step instructions and design inspirations. $30, ArtWaves members receive a $10 discount. Register at artwavesmdi.org/Class-Calendars
Find out more »Families Create! Night Sky at ArtWaves
Brown bag your lunch and let's work in a few different media - a felted shooting star, Wax resist constellations, Paper star books plaster and glass; small projects for small hands with embellishments for older kids. $25 per family table (members discount $10.) Register at artwavesmdi.org/Class-Calendars
Find out more »Bioluminescent & Star Gazing Paddle
Experience an unforgettable evening paddle in Castine Harbor's Bioluminescent Bay under a blanket of stars and in the midst of bioluminescent organisms of the water that swirl and light up with every stroke of your paddle! Fascinating! Castine's Harbor is Maine's own Bioluminescent Bay with a unique ecosystem that creates the perfect environment for these glow in the dark phytoplankton to survive and multiply. In our unique "Floating Planetarium" we'll explore the constellations of the stars of the night sky…
Find out more »