33rd Nebraska Star Party Underway

The 2026 Nebraska Star Party started with registration on Sunday at Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area south of Valentine. According to organizer John Johnston there were 370 preregistered for the event and another 30 plus that showed up on Sunday.  There will most likely be more show up during the weeklong event.

The event promotes its internationally recognized dark skies, beginner field school, astronomy presentations, family activities, astrophotography, and observing opportunities. The public is welcome to attend the trade show and guest speakers on Wednesday at Valentine High School. 

 The public star party will be this Friday, at 9pm .  The public should arrive before 9 to attend the introductory program and then proceed to the observing field. If you park facing away from the observing field so that your lights don’t district participants when you leave.  

The theme this year is “Groovin around the Galaxy”. For more information go to nebraskastarparty.org.